HOUSTON, Texas (Women's Basketball) -- In a tough battle between the regular season co-champions, Texas Southern University defeated Grambling State University, 70-66 in the championship game of the 2017 Toyota Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Tournament.

"It was a hard fought game... we live to play again. One game does not define us as a basketball team. The future is bright for Grambling women's basketball," said Interim Head Coach Freddie Murray

The first quarter and the latter part of the second belonged to Grambling (with GSU having their biggest lead of 12 points in the first quarter) as John'ea Thompson delivered consecutive shots along with teammate Shakyla Hill. Not willing to accept defeat, Texas Southern began to instill some momentum in their athleticism, allowing them to close the gap in points. At halftime, the score was tied at 35.

During the second half of the game both teams toggled between having the lead but Joyce Kennerson of Texas Southern began to secure baskets for her team, obtaining the win for the number two seed. 

Although Grambling was unable to come out victorious, Coach Murray is confident his team will return to the tournament again.

"This team was talented this year," Murray asserted, "They'll be talented next year."

Together, Thompson and Hill scored 44 of the Lady Tigers 66 points. Thompson led GSU with 23 points and 9 rebounds. Hill finished with a double-double of 21 points and 10 rebounds.

TSU was anchored by Kennerson with 29 points and Shamiya Brooks with 12 rebounds.

Grambling closes out their SWAC campaign with a record of 14-4 and an overall record of 18-14.