The St. Thomas women’s basketball team, led by senior Taylor Young’s 21 points, saw its season come to a close with a 87-78 loss to Wis.-Whitewater in the second round of the Division-III NCAA tournament Saturday at Schoenecker Arena.

The Tommies got behind early in the second half and couldn’t overcome the foul trouble, turnovers and Warhawk offense, led by Kristen Ruchti’s 25 points.

“They got a lead, and then all of a sudden, there was no momentum,” coach Ruth Sinn said. “It just kept going to free throws, and unfortunately that didn’t favor us; which we knew it wouldn’t.”

Sinn knew the Tommies would have some matchup advantages going into this game, which led to guard Jenna Dockter being inserted into the starting lineup for the first time this season after missing most of the year with a leg injury.

“They were a pressing team and Jenna played point guard all through high school so we wanted to attack,” Sinn said. “We got great matchups and lots of opportunities for Jenna in that position because they couldn’t guard her.”

Dockter took the promotion and ran with it, scoring 20 points. In spite of her impressive performance, she credits her teammates for contributing to her play and easing her nerves in such a big game.

“(Being in the starting lineup) was definitely nerve racking,” Dockter said. “We knew Whitewater was really talented, and it was a big game, but all my teammates and coaches have been so supportive. They gave me confidence.”

After leading at the half 39-35, the Warhawks jumped out to a quick lead in the second half and never looked back.

Whitewater (24-4) used Ruchti’s dominant inside game to open up opportunities for its outside shooters such as Abbie Reeves, who connected on three 3-pointers during the game.

“They’re just an overall really good team,” said Young. “They got a run on us, and it was hard to get back. They had really good post play.”

With the loss, the Tommies end their season with a 25-5 record.

Despite the loss, the team still found positives to take away from such a rewarding season with such a close team.

“Obviously we wanted to go further, but we knew that this game would be a war and a battle, and that’s what it was,” Young said. “I’m just really proud of all my teammates. I think we left it all out on the floor and did everything we could.”

Young is one of four seniors on the St. Thomas roster who closed out their collegiate career Saturday night. Guards Kelly Brandenburg and Annessa Hicks, and center Maggie Weiers were the other seniors who took the court for the last time.

“We have amazing seniors,” Dockter said. “I’ll miss playing with them out there, but I know the friendships will last forever.”

“They are all my best friends,” Young added. “We are an unreal group together because we all just love each other. That’s what I’m going to miss.”

Scott Sikich can be reached at siki3549@stthomas.edu