UT-Rio Grande Valley hit a game-winning three pointer to end The Lady Cardinal’s 16-game home court wining streak, Feb. 8.
Sabria Dean had put the Cardinals’ ahead with less than 30 seconds to play but it was not enough as they dropped a 58-56 decision in the Neches Federal Credit Union Arena at the Montagne Center.
Dean led the Cardinals with 23 points on 10-of-21 shooting from the field. R’Mani Taylor recorded 12 points including two three-pointers while adding four assists. Jacei Denley led the Cardinals with five assists while Akasha Davis totaled seven points and seven rebounds.
The Cardinals converted 41 percent of their field goals, but were outrebounded, 41-26.
UTRGV took a 31-23 lead into the break.
The Vaqueros stretched their lead to double-digits early in the third quarter before the Cardinals answered back with a 10-2 surge to get within three, 38-35.
With 7:05 to play, the Vaqueros’ had stretched their advantage to 50-40 before the Cardinals rallied to close the margin to 52-51 with under two minutes to play. UTRGV connected on a three-pointer to increase its lead to four before Davis answered with a three-pointer with 47 seconds left.
After a Vaquero turnover, Dean delivered a go-ahead basket with 29 seconds left for a 56-55 lead. UTRGV’s missed its first attempt but grabbed the rebound and hit a three. The Cardinals had a chance to tie, but a three-point shot wouldn’t fall.
LU ((15-7, 10-3 SLC) will travel to Natchitoches, La., to take on Northwestern State, Feb. 13, at 6:30 p.m. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+.