WINFIELD, Kan. – Despite a resilient effort, the Southwestern College Lady Builders (3-15, 3-13) fell short against York University (7-12, 5-11) on Saturday at the Freeman Center, dropping a 71-60  in conference play.

Without key contributor Christy Wiebe, Southwestern faced an uphill battle but managed to stay within striking distance. The Lady Builders led 19-15 after the first quarter behind Macey Pond's hot shooting, as she poured in 14 early points. York responded in the second quarter, outscoring Southwestern 18-10 to take a 33-29 halftime lead. Ashley Rubio led York at the break with 8 points.

Southwestern battled back in the third quarter, led by Haven Matthews, who hit key shots and played aggressive defense. Matthews nailed a big three-pointer and converted a quick elbow jumper, helping the Lady Builders momentarily tie the game late in the third quarter. York, however, maintained its edge, leading 53-48 heading into the final frame.

Defensively, Southwestern restricted York's three-point shooting, allowing just three made three-pointers for the game. Jerranay Echols facilitated the offense well, finishing with six assists, but the Lady Builders struggled with efficiency, shooting just 33 percent from the field, compared to York's 43 percent.

Despite an aggressive push from Southwestern, York controlled the glass, dominating the rebounding battle 51-32. Destiny Shepherd took over down the stretch, sealing the game with 22 points and 10 rebounds, including key free throws in the final minutes. York outscored Southwestern 18-12 in the fourth quarter, pulling away for the 71-60 victory.

Southwestern will look to regroup as they prepare for their next KCAC match up against Oklahoma Wesleyan . The Lady Builders travel to Bartlesville Oklahoma to face the eagles.  5 pm, February 1^st 2025