At F&M Bank Arena on March 19, the Austin Peay women’s basketball team took the hardwood against the UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros in the Women’s National Invitation Tournament. After 40 minutes of play, Austin Peay was defeated 71-59. The loss knocks the Govs out of the WNIT and ends a historic season for the program.

Austin Peay kept the game close throughout the first half, shooting 10-of-32 from the field and 5-of-17 from beyond the arc. Despite the cold shooting, the Govs’ defense pressured UTRGV into 10 turnovers and drew five fouls in the opening 20 minutes.

At halftime, Rio Grande Valley led Austin Peay 38-29, and the Vaqueros’ strong start continued into the second half. UTRGV found open mid-range jumpers and exploited mismatches inside, stretching the lead to 54-41 by the end of the third quarter.

Austin Peay continued to battle in the fourth quarter but ultimately came up short, falling 71-59. The loss ends a historic season for the Govs, who set a new standard for the program and laid a strong foundation for the future.