WAVERLY, Iowa — Junior forward Hannah Spaulding scored 12 first-half points for the Tommies, but the team trailed East Texas Baptist 28-24 at the half Friday in the Sweet 16 at Levick Arena in Waverly, Iowa.

The Tommies found themselves in a 10-point hole after the first quarter as the the Tigers came out strong defensively.

In the second-quarter, St. Thomas started to find gaps in the East Texas Baptist zone defense. Senior guard Maddie Wolkow hit an open three-pointer and was the leading scorer for the Tommies with five points.

The Tommies are looking for their 21st consecutive win and to advance to the Elite 8 for the second straight season.

Brady Halbmaier can be reached at halb2084@stthomas.edu.