SAN ANTONIO – The University of the Incarnate Word women's basketball team picked up its first win of the 2025-26 season with an 86-72 victory over St. Thomas (TX) on Monday evening at the McDermott Center. The win marked the first career victory for Head Coach Jhasmin Player. The Cardinals shot a blistering 55% from the field and 44% from three-point range, showcasing an efficient offensive performance in their home opener.
Jorja Elliott led the Cardinals with a career-high 28 points, adding eight rebounds, three assists, three blocks, and three steals in a dominant all-around effort. UIW featured a balanced offensive attack with four players scoring in double figures. Brynn Lusby provided a spark off the bench with 16 points, while Destiny Whitaker added 13 points and a game-high nine rebounds. Gwendelyn McGrew rounded out the double-digit scorers with 11 points off the bench, and Madison Cockrell orchestrated the offense with a game-high nine assists.
The Cardinals held a narrow 24-21 lead after the opening quarter as both offenses came out firing. UIW found its rhythm in the second frame, outscoring the Celts 21-11 to take control of the game. The Red and Black shot an impressive 59% from the field in the first half, heading into the locker room with a 45-32 advantage.
UIW slowed slightly in the third quarter, posting 19 points—its lowest-scoring frame of the night—but still maintained control with a 64-49 lead heading into the fourth. St. Thomas outscored the Cardinals in the final period, yet UIW's depth and efficiency proved too much, as the Red and Black closed out the game to secure the victory.
The Cardinals return to the McDermott Center for the Clash at the Nest, hosting crosstown rival UTSA on Wednesday, November 19. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m.
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