The magical postseason run by the Governors State women’s basketball team ended March 21 when the Jaguars fell to third-seeded Briar Cliff (IA), 65-43, in the quarterfinals of the NAIA National Tournament.
While the loss was tough, the Jaguars wrapped up a historic season that saw them reach Round 8 on their first-ever trip to the national stage, cementing themselves as one of the top programs in the country.
Zareia Chevre led the Jaguars with 18 points and eight rebounds, knocking down three shots from beyond the arc and giving GovState a spark offensively throughout the game. Senior forward Tabetha Jones capped off her incredible tournament run with 17 points, seven rebounds, and five assists, showcasing her leadership one last time on the national stage.
Though the Jaguars struggled from the field, shooting just 25% overall and 13% from three, they stayed aggressive and composed at the free-throw line, going 10-for-12 as a team. Governors State was outrebounded 41-35 but held their own on the defensive glass and battled until the final whistle.
Kalvina Eubanks and Da’Naria Washington combined for seven points and eight rebounds, while reserves Izzy Agredano and Louisa Schmidt provided solid minutes off the bench.
The loss ends Governors State’s season with a 29-6 record—the winningest campaign in program history. The Jaguars secured their first-ever appearance in the NAIA National Tournament, earned an opening-round win over Arizona Christian, and pulled off a stunning upset of No. 1 seed Campbellsville to reach the quarterfinals.
It was a season defined by grit, growth, and belief.
“This team gave everything,” head coach Tanisha Mack said after the game. “They made history, earned national respect, and set a new standard for what’s possible at GovState.”
With several key players returning and a postseason run to build on, the future is bright for Governors State women’s basketball. And while the scoreboard didn’t fall their way on Friday, the Jaguars walk away with an incredible season to be proud of and a bright future ahead of this program.