Box Score HOBBS, NM:  The Texas Wesleyan University women’s basketball team (22-6, 17-5 RRAC) suffered an 85-81 loss at the University of the Southwest (10-20, 5-19) on Thursday.
 
The Lady Rams dominated the game statistically in the first half, outshooting the Mustangs 46%-38% from the field and outrebounding USW 29-12.  However, 11 first half points from Anika Hostos kept the Mustangs close, 38-35 at the break.
 
In the second half, the Rams were whistled for 15 fouls and were unable to get USW into the double-bonus.  That allowed USW to score 15 points on 18 free throw attempts.  That and 18 second half points from Simone Buchanon led the Mustangs charging past the Lady Rams.
 
For the game, Texas Wesleyan outshot Southwest 46%-38% from the field and dominated the glass to the tune of a 61-29 advantage.  The Mustangs benifited from 15 turnovers while committing just six and outscored the Rams 18-6 at the free throw line.
 
Five lady Rams reached double-figures in scoring led by Brittany White's 16 points and 10 rebounds.  Octavia Mullins added her sixteenth double-double of the season with 13 points and 13 boards.  Raven Smith finished with 12 points, Raven Alexander 11, and Kayla McCray 10 in the loss.
 
Southwest was led by Buchanan’s 22 point effort.  Shannon Reed added 17 points and Hostos finished with 14.
 
The Lady Rams will return to action on Saturday, when they celebrate Senior Day and host Bacone College.  That final home game of the season is scheduled for a 2:00 p.m. start.