SANTA CRUZ, Calif. – Hardin-Simmons' Cowgirl basketball improved to 2-0 on the young season with a 59-45 victory over CMS on Sunday morning at West Field House, wrapping up a perfect opening weekend in California.
After trailing 27-22 at halftime, the Cowgirls clamped down defensively and outscored CMS 37-18 over the final two quarters to pull away for the win. Hardin-Simmons held CMS to just 18 second-half points, including only ten in the fourth quarter.
Jacqueline Berry paced the Cowgirls with 14 points, six rebounds and four steals, while
MaeSyn Gay added 12 points and five rebounds. Off the bench,
Angie Sacco provided a spark with 12 points and five rebounds on 5-of-7 shooting.
Hardin-Simmons took control in the third quarter, beating a five-point halftime deficit and carrying a 38-35 lead into the final period. The Cowgirls then opened the fourth quarter with a decisive run, building a double-digit advantage and never allowing CMS back within striking distance.
The Cowgirls forced 19 CMS turnovers and converted them into 17 points while also holding a 35-31 edge on the glass. Hardin-Simmons received 20 points from its bench and scored 30 points in the paint.
With the victory, Hardin-Simmons returns to Texas after opening the year 2-0 in California. The Cowgirls will host their home opener on Saturday, Nov. 14, at 1 p.m. at the Mabee Athletic Complex.
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