LAMORINDA WEEKLY | SMC in WNIT for Fifth Year in Row


Jackie Nared Photos Tod Fierner

Saint Mary's women's basketball qualified for the Women's National Invitation Tournament and earned a first round win at home against Bakersfield.

The Gaels (23-9) faced the Roadrunners on March 21. SMC found themselves down 13-4 early, but they responded with a 20-3 run to take the lead. Bakersfield opened the second half hot to build a lead. The Gaels caught back up to tie it at 55 all with seven minutes to play. They took the lead and never looked back.

SMC was led by senior Jackie Nared, who had a game-high 27 points and 11 rebounds. Senior forward Danielle Mauldin added her 10 points and 12 rebounds for her 24th double-double of the year. Senior guard Kate Gaze added 10 points and five assists.

They advanced to face UTEP in Texas on March 24 after the press deadline. Follow @LamorindaSports for score reports and tournament updates.