Tulane University’s women’s basketball team nearly overcame a double-digit deficit but ultimately fell short against North Texas on Saturday. The game, held at Avron B. Fogelman Arena in the Devlin Fieldhouse, ended with a 59-53 victory for North Texas. With this result, North Texas improved its season record to 9-7 (3-1 American Athletic Conference), while Tulane dropped to 6-10 (1-3 American).
Both teams recorded similar shooting percentages at 35 percent from the field. Tulane made three three-point shots compared to two by North Texas. The rebounding totals were close, with North Texas holding a slight edge at 42-40, particularly on the offensive glass where they secured three more rebounds than Tulane. These extra opportunities translated into 16 second-chance points for North Texas, compared to seven for Tulane.
Turnovers also played a significant role in the outcome. Tulane committed 20 turnovers while forcing 15 from North Texas. This led to a notable difference in points off turnovers, as North Texas scored 19 points in this category versus six by Tulane.
Mecailin Marshall led the Green Wave with 20 points and achieved her first career double-double by adding a career-high 10 rebounds. Kanija Daniel contributed 14 points along with six rebounds and set a personal best with three blocks and one steal. Dyllan Hanna collected seven rebounds, bringing her within five of reaching the milestone of 500 career boards. Kendall Sneed led Tulane in assists with four.
The game began evenly before North Texas went on an early run that put them ahead by ten after the first quarter. Despite efforts from Daniel and Marshall to cut into the deficit during the second quarter, North Texas maintained control and led by fifteen at halftime.
In the third quarter, Tulane responded with a strong performance that reduced their deficit but was met by another surge from North Texas to restore their lead heading into the final period.
During the fourth quarter, Marshall’s free throws and three-point shot helped spark Tulane’s comeback attempt. A late layup from Jayda Brown brought them within three points with just eleven seconds remaining, but time ran out before they could complete their rally.
Despite being outscored in the first half, Tulane had an improved showing after halftime but could not overcome their early struggles.
Tulane will next play on Tuesday, January 13, when they travel to Philadelphia to face Temple University at 6:00 p.m., with coverage available via ESPN+.
Tickets for upcoming games are available through phone orders or online at TulaneTix.com or can be purchased directly at the James W. Wilson Jr. Center ticket office.
Fans can download the official mobile app of Tulane Athletics for updates and follow @GreenWaveWBB on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram for behind-the-scenes coverage.
