Ellison Scores 28, Lions Fall 70–63 at Incarnate Word

Photo courtesy ETAMU Athletics

SAN ANTONIO, Texas (TXAN 24) — A standout performance from Tiani Ellison wasn’t enough to overcome a strong second-half push by Incarnate Word, as the East Texas A&M women’s basketball team fell 70–63 Thursday night at the McDermott Center.

Ellison led all scorers with 28 points and added seven rebounds, three blocks, and a steal in an all-around effort for the Lions. Despite the showing, East Texas A&M dropped its second straight game, falling to 7–8 overall and 3–5 in Southland Conference play. Incarnate Word improved to 7–8 on the season and 5–3 in conference action.

The Lions controlled much of the opening quarter and never trailed in the first 10 minutes, but were unable to extend the lead beyond four. East Texas A&M opened the second quarter with a three-pointer to go up 20–14 — the largest lead for either team — before the Cardinals responded with a run to take their first lead of the game. The teams entered halftime tied at 32–32.

Incarnate Word came out firing in the third quarter, knocking down back-to-back three-pointers and capitalizing at the free-throw line throughout the night. The Cardinals finished 20-of-26 from the stripe and carried a 53–51 advantage into the fourth quarter.

UIW extended its lead early in the final period after holding the Lions scoreless for the first 2:30. East Texas A&M mounted one final push, cutting the deficit to three with just over three minutes remaining, but the Cardinals answered with timely buckets to close out the win.

Reza Po added 13 points for the Lions. Brynn Lusby led Incarnate Word with 19 points off the bench.

Up Next: East Texas A&M continues its road trip Saturday at Houston Christian University, with tip-off set for 1 p.