SAN ANTONIO – The University of the Incarnate Word women's basketball team dropped an 80–70 overtime decision to UTRGV on Saturday afternoon at the McDermott Center in a tightly contested Southland Conference matchup.

UIW (10–10, 8–5 SLC) erased a six-point halftime deficit with a strong third quarter, outscoring the Vaqueros 23–10 to take a 51–44 lead entering the fourth. The Cardinals shot 57.1 percent from the field in the third period and knocked down five three-pointers, turning defensive stops into transition opportunities to swing momentum.

Gwendlyn McGrew led the Cardinals with 17 points, connecting on five three-pointers, while Jorja Elliott added 20 points and a team-high 10 rebounds for a double-double. Brynn Lusby chipped in 14 points, and UIW received a spark off the bench from Destiny Whitaker, who finished with six points and three steals.

The fourth quarter saw multiple lead changes as UTRGV battled back to force overtime. UIW briefly regained the advantage late in regulation, but the Vaqueros closed the period on a run to send the game to the extra frame tied at 63.

UTRGV controlled overtime, outscoring the Cardinals 17–7, aided by timely free throws and second-chance points. UIW finished the game with a +27 bench scoring advantage (43–16) but was limited to 32.1 percent shooting overall.

The Cardinals will look to bounce back as they continue Southland Conference play next week.

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