LAKE CHARLES, La. — Trinity Moore delivered a standout performance with 14 points, 10 rebounds, and a pivotal block in the final moments as Stephen F. Austin, the No. 3 seed, triumphed over top-seeded SE Louisiana by a score of 65-57 on Thursday night. This victory secured their 19th Southland Tournament championship in the program’s history.
In the closing minutes, Moore’s defensive prowess was on full display when she halted a shot attempt by Taylor Bell, sending it out of bounds. She subsequently intercepted the inbounds pass with just 32 seconds remaining on the clock. Moore then drew a foul, calmly sinking two free throws to extend her team’s lead to 61-55.
Harmaine Dominguez and Avery VanSickle played instrumental roles, converting four consecutive free throws within the final 15 seconds to ensure that Stephen F. Austin maintained a comfortable two-possession advantage.
This victory marks Stephen F. Austin’s (29-5) 19th appearance in the NCAA Tournament, with this being their first since becoming a member of the Western Athletic Conference in 2022.
SE Louisiana, boasting a strong record of 26-5 and the previous tournament champion title, sought to make its second NCAA Tournament appearance in three years but fell short in this contest.
Dominguez, VanSickle, and Ashlyn Traylor-Walker each contributed 13 points to Stephen F. Austin’s winning effort.
For SE Louisiana, both Alexius Horne and Taylor Bell matched the feat with 13 points each, while Lexi Alexander made her presence felt with 10 rebounds and four points.
SE Louisiana initially fell behind during the first eight minutes of the second quarter, but rallied with an 8-2 scoring surge to end the half. Horne’s three-pointer at the buzzer elevated them to a 32-29 lead, making her the leading scorer at halftime with 11 points.
Stephen F. Austin responded robustly in the third quarter, unleashing a 12-point run to reclaim a 41-36 advantage.
