#22 Jontelle Smith and #2 Louella Tomlinson Photo Tod Fierner

While the SMC men's basketball team traveled across the country, the women's basketball team was privileged with staying home for its post-season play. The Gaels hosted Utah in the first round of the Women's National Invitational Tournament (WNIT) on March 21st at McKeon Pavilion. Unfortunately, home court advantage was not enough to give the Gaels the win and they fell, 66-53.
Saint Mary's came out with a quick start to open the game, but the Utes answered right back. Heading into half time the Gaels recovered a one-point lead, 32-31. The second half was all about the visitors. The Gaels struggled to put points on the board against an oppressive Utah defense. The Utes went on a 15-0 run late in the game to build a significant lead which the Gaels could not overcome.
Junior forward Louella Tomlinson posted her 21st double-double of the season and led the Gaels with 13 points, 11 rebounds and six blocks. Senior guard Jontelle Smith recorded 11 points in her last game as a Gael. Her 11 points put her third on the list of leading scorers in Saint Mary's history.
Saint Mary's finished with a 21-9 overall record, its first 20-win season since 2000-20001. Head Coach Paul Thomas thought this season marked a big improvement, "We took a major step forward in this program, a major step forward."

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