DAHLONEGA, Ga. — No. 3 Anderson University women's basketball (24-10) comeback bid fell just short against No. 6 Carson-Newman (23-8), 75-71, in the first round of the NCAA Division II Women's Basketball Tournament on Thursday afternoon at the UNG Convocation Center.

"Didn't end as we wanted it, but what grit and fight that we showed," stated head coach Jonathon Barbaree. "We were led by a great senior class!"

"I'm so proud of this team and they will forever be known as conference tournament champions," noted Barbaree.

"Thank you to our seniors for giving so much," added Barbaree. "And thank you to our fans that came and cheered us on."

Carson-Newman's Campbell Penland and Jennifer Sullivan led the Eagles with 17 points apiece, while Makayla Alvey added 15 points and seven rebounds. Tori Rutherford posted a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds.

Carson-Newman took control in the second quarter, outscoring Anderson 23-10 to build a halftime lead. The Trojans responded in the second half, fueled by a stellar performance from senior Diamond McDowell, who finished with 23 points and 10 rebounds. Senior Zamiya Passmore added 17 points,11 assists and seven rebounds. Freshman Rose Gravel chipped in 12 points and pulled down seven rebounds for the Black and Gold.

The Trojans were down as many 18 points with 5:56 left to play in the third quarter. The Trojans dug their heels in and went on a 13-0 run over the next 5-minutes of action to cut the lead to five. Anderson continued to fight cutting the deficit to one possession in the final minute but were unable to complete the comeback.

Both teams shot over 41% from the field, but Carson-Newman's nine three-pointers proved to be the difference. The Eagles advance to the second round, where they will face No. 2 Coker.