The Lady Saints delivered one of their most complete performances of the season, defeating the Lady Knights on their home floor in the opening round of the Southwest Region Tournament.
From the tip-off, the Saints embraced the road challenge. The Knights fed off their home crowd early, but the Saints responded with disciplined defense and balanced scoring. After weathering an initial push, the Saints settled in behind strong guard play and began controlling the tempo midway through the first half.
Alex Collins once again showed why she is a First Team All-Region selection. The freshman filled the stat sheet, attacking the rim, knocking down perimeter shots, and facilitating for teammates. Averaging 17.4 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game this season, Collins' versatility was on full display as she made key plays whenever the Knights threatened to swing momentum.
Tristyn Kirkes complemented her perfectly. The freshman guard, who averages 14.9 points and 6.2 rebounds per game, stretched the defense with her three-point shooting (35.7% on the season) and attacked passing lanes defensively. Her ability to score in transition and finish in traffic helped the Saints create separation in crucial stretches.
Inside, Nailiyah McLaurin controlled the paint. Shooting an efficient 48.5% from the field and averaging 12.3 points and 8.0 rebounds per game, the sophomore forward battled through contact, secured second-chance opportunities, and limited the Knights' interior scoring. Her physical presence was a difference-maker late in the game when every possession mattered.
At the point, Chrissa Gomez provided leadership and composure. Averaging 9.0 points and 4.7 assists per game, Gomez kept the offense organized against defensive pressure and delivered timely assists that led to high-percentage shots. She also contributed defensively, helping disrupt the Knights' rhythm.
Defensively, the Saints made key adjustments in the second half—tightening their perimeter coverage and limiting second-chance points. Rebounding and transition offense became turning points, allowing them to build and maintain their lead down the stretch. Even when the Knights made a late push, the Saints stayed composed, executed in the half court, and knocked down free throws to secure the win.
The victory not only advances the Lady Saints in the tournament but also highlights the strength of their season. Four players earned All-Region honors:
Tristyn Kirkes – First Team All-Region
Alex Collins – First Team All-Region
Nailiyah McLaurin – Third Team All-Region
Chrissa Gomez – Third Team All-Region
With two freshmen earning First Team recognition and strong veteran contributions alongside them, the Lady Saints proved they can win in high-pressure environments—and they're playing their best basketball at the right time.
The Lady Saints face the Lady Patriots of Arlington Baptist University on Thursday, February 26th, at 2:00 PM in the Semi-Finals of the Southwest Region Tournament. Tune in on the SWAU Athletics Youtube Livestream.