Eagles Fall Short Despite Strong Finish Against Loyola

NEW ORLEANS, Louisiana - Women's Basketball traveled to New Orleans yesterday to compete against the nationally voted (RV) Wolf Pack of Loyola University-New Orleans. The Eagles showcased resilience and grit but ultimately came up short in a hard-fought 79–74 loss at The Den. 

The game started on a challenging note for the Eagles, as they struggled offensively in the first quarter, shooting just 23.5% from the field. Loyola took full advantage, building a nine-point lead after the first period. Despite the slow start, the Eagles found their rhythm in the second quarter, improving to a 53.8% shooting clip.

Although Texas A&M–Texarkana excelled from beyond the arc with a stellar 60% team three-point percentage, Loyola's balanced attack and efficient inside game proved difficult to contain. The Wolf Pack outscored the Eagles 46–30 in the paint, and their dominance on the boards (38–27) provided second-chance opportunities that ultimately tipped the scales in their favor.

Defensively, the Eagles managed to generate 12 steals, with Evelyn Terraza Alcántar leading the way with four. Their hustle on defense converted into 20 points off turnovers, showcasing their ability to capitalize on mistakes.

The Eagles delivered an inspired second-half performance, outscoring Loyola in the fourth quarter 27–20, but their rally fell just short.

The Eagles were led in scoring by senior Kayla Williams who recorded a season high 25 points on 4-5 shooting from beyond the arc. Chioma Treasure Emeh would add 14 points to the mix for the Eagles. Junio Evelyn Terraza Alcántar contributed a season high 8 assists and 4 steals for TAMUT. 

Last night's loss drops the Eagles to 1-10 on the season and 1-6 in conference play. Women's Basketball will play once more in New Orleans before heading back home to Texarkana, they will face off against the Seahawks of Keiser University tonight at 5:30pm.