GALLATIN, TN – The Southern Virginia University women's basketball team faced a challenging start to the 2023 Music City Classic, dropping their opening game against DePauw University with a final score of 42-71.

The Knights began the game on a positive note, surging to a 14-10 lead after eight unanswered points, with Alyssa Weiland contributing a team-high six points in the first quarter. However, the Tigers rallied back to equalize the game, and a buzzer-beater three-pointer from Maria Savvun in the final seconds concluded the first quarter with a narrow margin of 17-15.

The second quarter witnessed a closely contested battle, with the score at 25-26. However, DePauw seized control in the final four minutes, outscoring the Knights 11-2 and heading into halftime with a 37-27 lead.

Despite a competitive start, the Knights struggled to capitalize on scoring opportunities in the second half. Meanwhile, the Tigers' offense continued to gain momentum, ultimately resulting in a final score of 42-71.

Noteworthy performances included Ruth Kempler, who, for the second time this season, grabbed 10 rebounds for the Knights, in addition to contributing six points and a block.

Southern Virginia shot 18-60 (30.0%) from the field and 3-22 (13.6%) from behind the arc. The team aims to regroup and bounce back in the second game of the tournament, scheduled for Wednesday, December 20th, against Grove City at 5:00 PM CST.