Women's Basketball Falls to Seward County in Opening Round of Region VI Tournament

Fort Hays Tech Northwest Women’s Basketball fell to Seward County Community College on Saturday, 84–52, in the opening round of the Region VI Women’s Basketball Tournament.

The Lady Tigers struggled to find their rhythm early, as Seward County jumped out to a 10–2 lead before the first media timeout at the 4:36 mark. The Saints continued to build on their momentum, extending the lead to 16 points before Zarria Thomas ended the scoring drought with a three-pointer. Seward closed the opening quarter on a 10–0 run to take a commanding 26–5 advantage.

The Saints carried that momentum into the second quarter, knocking down two more three-pointers before Tech found the scoreboard again. The Lady Tigers showed signs of life about three minutes into the period, scoring eight straight points to reach double digits and cut the deficit to 35–13 with 6:10 remaining in the half. Following a timeout, Seward responded with an 11–3 run to push the lead to 46–16 with 2:33 left before halftime. The Saints maintained control the rest of the quarter and took a 51–19 lead into the break.

Marta Rodriguez hit a three to open the scoring in the second half, soon followed up by a jump shot from Marieke Acthun before the Saints resumed their offense. The teams traded baskets throughout the third quarter, with the Saints holding a 62–29 lead at the media timeout with 4:36 remaining. However, the Lady Tigers gained control, going on a 10–4 run before entering the final quarter.

Seward pushed its lead to 76–43 midway through the fourth before a timeout paused play at the 5:47 mark. Tech continued to compete down the stretch, narrowly outscoring the Saints 9–8 over the final minutes.

Statistically, turnovers and shooting efficiency proved to be key factors. The Lady Tigers committed 24 turnovers, which Seward converted into 37 points. Tech also shot 30.8 percent from the field, including a 1-of-9 performance in the first quarter that put them behind early.

Al’asia Brown led the Tigers with 12 points as the lone player in double figures. Taisiia Vypovska and Marta Rodriguez also contributed, each adding nine points and five rebounds.

With the Lady Tigers now eliminated from the postseason, they will look forward to preparing for next season.