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HOBBS, N.M. -- The Southwest Mustangs women's basketball team battled hard but came up short against undefeated North American, dropping a 76–62 decision Thursday evening at the USW campus.

Southwest matched North American early, ending the first quarter tied at 11–11, thanks to steady play from Michaela Ray, who scored five points in the opening frame and grabbed three rebounds. The Lady Mustangs stayed within striking distance through halftime, trailing just 35–31 after a second-quarter surge that featured clutch three-pointers from Karinna Ortiz and Briana Montoya.

In the second half, North American's balanced attack and dominance in the paint (52 points inside) proved decisive. Southwest struggled to convert from deep, finishing 7-of-31 (22.6%) from beyond the arc, while North American shot 47% overall. Despite the shooting woes, the Mustangs showcased resilience and hustle, forcing 16 turnovers and turning them into 16 points.

Seniya Wilson led Southwest with a team-high 18 points, seven assists, and seven rebounds, while Ray added 13 points and nine boards. Ortiz chipped in 10 points, and Montoya contributed 12 points, including four three-pointers. Southwest excelled at the free-throw line, hitting 92.9% (13-of-14), and outscored North American on fast breaks, 16–3.

The Mustangs will look to regroup and build on the positives—strong free-throw shooting and transition play—as they prepare for their next conference matchup Saturday against Xavier.

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