CEDAR HILL, Texas – The University of the Southwest women's basketball team battled hard but couldn't overcome a slow start and a dominant inside game from UNT Dallas, falling 86–66 on Saturday afternoon in conference play.

Southwest struggled early, shooting just 16.7% in the first quarter, and trailed 27–12 after the opening frame. The visitors found rhythm in the second quarter, hitting 50% from the field and trimming the deficit, but UNT Dallas maintained control behind its size and transition game.

Karinna Ortiz led Southwest with 16 points and 8 rebounds, knocking down two three-pointers and going 4-of-6 from the line. Briana Montoya provided a spark from deep, hitting 5-of-9 from three en route to 15 points, while Seniya Wilson added 13 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 assists in a versatile effort. Hazel Lord anchored the glass with 9 rebounds and chipped in five points.

Southwest finished the game shooting 30.4% overall and 32.4% from three-point range, connecting on 11 triples. However, turnovers (24) and points in the paint proved decisive, as UNT Dallas outscored Southwest 44–20 inside and converted 21 points off turnovers. The Trailblazers also dominated the boards, holding a 52–43 rebounding edge and scoring 34 bench points.

Despite the loss, Southwest showed resilience, particularly in the second quarter and from beyond the arc, where Montoya and Ortiz kept the team within striking distance. The team will look to regroup and build on its perimeter success as conference play continues.

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