PHOENIX, Ariz. -- The University of the Southwest women's basketball team battled back from an early deficit but ultimately fell 75-59 to Nelson University, Arizona, on Saturday afternoon at the Warriors' home court.

Southwest struggled to find its rhythm in the opening quarter, shooting just 11.8% from the field as Nelson built a commanding 30–8 lead. The Mustangs responded in the second half, outscoring the Warriors 36–29, but the early gap proved too much to overcome.

The Lady Mustangs were led by Karinna Ortiz with 23 points, Briana Montoya with 18 points and three rebounds and Seniya Wilson with nine points, seven rebounds and four assists.

Southwest finished shooting 28.4% from the floor and 71.4% from the line, while forcing 12 fouls and scoring 13 points off turnovers. The Mustangs also held a slight edge in the paint (18–16), but Nelson's bench contributed 35 points to secure the win.

Southwest returns to action next week to start conference play at the University of North Texas at Dallas.

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