MESA, Ariz. - Simpson University women's basketball made history twice by picking up the 71-65 win over Embry-Riddle in the Cal Pac Semifinals.

With the victory, the Red Hawks advance to the Cal Pac Championship game against UAV for the first time in program history. They also clinched a spot in the NAIA National Championships, which is also the first time in program history.

Regardless of what happens in the conference final, SU will be heading to one of 16 host locations for the first and second rounds of the NAIA Opening Rounds.

For now, the Red Hawks will focus on the Cal Pac Championship game on Tuesday at 4 PM PST against UAV.
 

The Red Hawks (20-9) jumped out to an early 6-0 lead, but the ERAU defense took SU out of its rhythm and the offense stalled the rest of the half, being outscored 19-13 in a low-scoring defensive battle.  The tempo of the game picked up considerably in the second half as both teams increased defensive pressure and pushed transition.  SU scored the first seven points of the second half and took control of the contest, building a double-digit lead that the Red Hawks had until late in the fourth quarter.

 

SU had to hold off ERAU's furious sprint at the finish that saw the Eagles cut a 10-point deficit with 30 seconds left to just four with 10 seconds remaining.  But the Red Hawks were able to make free throws and run out the clock to keep their postseason alive.

 

SU had a short rotation in the game but got outstanding production from each player.  Celina Tress finished with 18 points and six rebounds, Livi Lindsey had 16 points and nine boards, and Nikki Thompson added 14 points to pace the Red Hawk offense.

The Cal Pac Final gets underway today at 4 PM PST in Mesa, Ariz.