UT Tyler rallied after halftime but couldn’t erase an 18-point deficit, falling 71-58 to receiving-votes Central Washington in the DII Tip-Off Classic finale. Hayley Cumming scored 20 points to lead the Patriots, who outscored the Wildcats by three in the second half and scored 23 in the fourth quarter.

By the Numbers
  • Final score: Central Washington 71, UT Tyler 58.
  • Hayley Cumming: 20 points; Polina Latysheva: 14 points and 8 rebounds; Jadyn Middleton: 12 points.
  • UT Tyler shot 22-for-56 from the field and 8-for-21 from 3-point range.
  • The Patriots trailed 35-19 at halftime, then outscored Central Washington 39-36 after the break.
Yes, But

UT Tyler’s late surge showed its scoring potential, but Central Washington’s strong start and 19-point halftime lead left too much ground to make up.

What’s Next

The Patriots, who finished the classic 1-2, return to action Nov. 13 against Colorado Christian at the South Central Region Challenge in Lubbock, Texas. They’ll face CSU Pueblo on Nov. 14.

Bottom Line

UT Tyler’s second-half response wasn’t enough to overcome its slow start; a stronger opening will be key in its next games.