It was a night of celebration and clutch performance as the GovState women’s basketball team defeated Aquinas College 58-57 in their home opener Wednesday at the ARC.

Before tip-off, the record-setting 2024-25 CCAC Championship team was honored in a ring ceremony at 5:30 p.m. All eight players from the amazing 29-6 team were in attendance to receive their custom championship rings, marking GovState’s first conference title.

Watching former teammates get their rings set the tone for what the current team wants to accomplish this season.

The ARC was packed, and as the game got closer down the stretch, the gym was roaring. Trailing heading into the fourth quarter, the Jaguars defense stepped up when it mattered most, outscoring the Saints 17-12 in the final 10 minutes. With 11 seconds remaining, Davina Smith grabbed an offensive rebound and hit the game-winning basket to seal the victory. Cencere McDaniel led the team with 19 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 assists, while Kalvina Eubanks added 14 points and 4 assists. Davina Smith was everywhere; she had 11 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals in 39 minutes. Kennedy White contributed five points, including two big shots, to help secure the win.

The win keeps the Jaguars undefeated at 3-0 to start the season. GovState will open the CCAC Conference play on the road at Holy Cross on Nov. 12 at 4:30 p.m.

For full stats, box scores, and more information, please visit the GovState athletics website.