Women's Basketball took on Sul Ross State on Sunday afternoon at the Jerabeck Activity and Athletics Center. In a tough matchup, the Celts hung in for four quarters, but ultimately came up just short, dropping the contest by a final score of 62-54.

The Celts started strong with a pair of layups from Nia McGee and a made three from Audrey Hernandez, jumping out to an early lead. From there, Sul Ross turned up the pressure and went on an extended run, leading 20-14 after the first quarter. UST's offense struggled to get going in the second quarter, but the defense kept them in the game. McGee and Sydnee Smith finally saw some shots go down midway through the period, and a late 5-point surge from Ravyn Ellis got the Celts within 7 at halftime. Sul Ross led at the break 34-27.

St. Thomas charged early in the second half behind more strong defense and makes from Macie Whitfield and Hayden Morin. Kareena Aragon gave UST their first lead of the half with a pair of free throws, and another three from Morin kept the game tied at 43 entering the fourth quarter. Unfortunately for the Celts, the Sul Ross offense hit some timely shots down the stretch, and despite battling to the final buzzer, the Celts couldn't quite get over the hump. UST got back within four on three different occasions, but the Lobos had an answer every time and held on late for the win.

The loss drops St. Thomas to 1-6 on the season. Ravyn Ellis led the team with 12 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 steals. Nia McGee had another solid game as well with 10 points and 6 rebounds.

This closes the non-conference portion of the season. The Celts open conference play Friday night at 7:30 with a road tilt at Dallas. For updates and scores, remember to follow ustcelts.com.