The Southwestern Spartans traveled to Boone on Wednesday, Feb 21, to take on the DMACC Bears in a hard-fought battle to the end. The game went to overtime, but the Spartans fell short in the end, finishing 63-67 to the Bears.

Spartan Head Coach Addae Houston said his team showed intensity throughout the game.

"We came so close to pulling out the win tonight," commented Houston after the game. "I know the players felt disappointed but their effort and execution throughout the game was tremendous."

At the close of the first half the Spartans trailed 27-28.

The second half was a game of runs for both teams as the momentum shifted several times. According to Houston, important shots on offense were made at the right times.

Late in the fourth quarter the Spartans held the lead 54-51 with under a minute remaining in the game. The Bears were able to tie the game 54-54 connecting on a 3-point field goal to force overtime.

During overtime, the Bears outscored the Spartans 13-9 to secure the win.

"It was our first overtime game of the season," stated Houston. "We handled the situation well, but in the end I believe our lack of experience playing in such a close game affected our poise in the moment."

As she has done several times this season, Spartan guard T'Keyah Stapleton led the way for the Spartans with 24 points. Keaundra Washington chipped in 13 points and Jasmine Aviles and Tina Lair-Van Meter both added eight points to round out the bulk of the scoring for the Spartans.

Up next, the Spartans will face Kirkwood Community College in Creston, on Saturday, Feb. 24, at 1 p.m.