SAN ANTONIO, Texas – The University of the Incarnate Word women's basketball team won the battle of the second half, but lost the war, dropping a 64-45 decision to UMass on Wednesday night at the McDermott Center.
 
HOW IT HAPPENED
 
The Minutewomen (4-3) dominated the first quarter, jumping out to a 17-5 lead after 10 minutes of action. The Cardinals (1-6) committed eight turnovers in the period and shot just 20 percent from the floor.
 
UIW warmed up in the second, nearly doubling their shooting percentage at 35.7 percent. Despite the improved offensive output, UMass increased their advantage by three points in the frame, and took a 32-17 lead into the break.
 
The Minutewomen came out of the locker room with a ton of energy, outscoring the Cardinals, 17-9. UIW was held to just 14.3 percent from the field and 16.7 percent from beyond the arc, while turning the ball over seven times.
 
Something clicked for the Cardinals in the final period, as they flipped the script to outscore UMass, 21-13. UIW forced seven Minutewomen turnovers, while committing just two, and converted eight offensive rebounds into seven second chance points.
 
While the Cardinals' frantic push over the final 10 minutes did not result in a comeback win, UIW will certainly hope to carry its momentum into Monday's game against South Dakota.
 
THE BREAKDOWN
 
The Cardinals shot 27.9 percent from the floor and 29.2 percent from long range, while surrendering 45.3 percent and 42.9 percent respectively.
 
UMass picked up a 34-12 edge on points in the paint, a 14-4 advantage on fast break points and a 23-14 edge on points off turnovers.
 
UIW secured a 11-7 advantage on second chance points, while rebounding and bench points were a wash.
 
LEADERS
 
Gabbi Bowie led the Cardinals with career-highs in points (17) and boards (6), to go along with 2 assists and a steal. Kara Speer contributed 12 points, 2 rebounds, an assist and a steal, while Imani Robinson added 5 points, 5 steals, 5 boards, 2 blocks and an assist. Sydnee Wynn finished with 7 rebounds, 3 points, 2 steals and an assist on the night.
 
Hailey Leidel paced the Minutewomen with 22 points, 5 steals, 3 boards, 2 blocks and an assist.
 
UP NEXT
 
UIW hosts South Dakota at 6 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 5.
 
STAY TUNED
 
The Cardinals travel to Houston for a date with Rice on Saturday, Dec. 9.
 
For the most up-to-date information on UIW Athletics visit uiwcardinals.com. Be sure to follow UIW Athletics on Twitter @UIWAthletics and like UIW Athletics on Facebook at UIW Athletics.