BUENA VISTA, VA – The William Peace University women's basketball team closed out their season with a tough road match up against top-seeded Southern Virginia, falling 83-43 at Knight Arena.

The Pacers (4-21, 3-13 USA South) struggled to find offensive rhythm early, trailing 21-7 after the first quarter. The Knights (24-2, 16-0 USA South) were able to extend the lead to 42-21 at halftime.

Shania Taylor led the Pacers with 11 points, shooting 4-of-9 from the field and adding five rebounds. Zikira Henderson added 8 points, while Alayna Randolph contributed 7 points, going 7-of-8 from the free-throw line. Brene'a Daye recorded in with 6 points, including two three-pointers, and Allye Woodruff added 5 points off the bench.

William Peace struggled from the floor, shooting 26.8% overall and 28.6% from beyond the arc, while Southern Virginia capitalized on their opportunities, shooting 41% from the field and knocking down 13 three-pointers. 

"I'm extremely happy we were able to play in the first round of the USA South tournament tonight. WPU Head Coach Annalee Bollinger said after the game. "We faced a very good SVU team and came up short, but our squad fought hard until the end and I am very proud of their effort tonight and all year long. We look forward to building with this group and growing together."