By Molly Sporleder

The Hastings College Women’s Basketball team made history after an incredible season. They secured a spot in the Sweet Sixteen and earned a place in the NAIA National Tournament held in Sioux City, Iowa, after winning their first- and second-round games at Friends University in Wichita, Kansas.

Hastings first defeated Friends University with a final score of 104–75, advancing to the second round where they faced Texas A&M University. They continued their success, winning 100–73 and earning their trip to Sioux City. While in Sioux City, the team not only competed in one of the biggest games of their season but also created lasting memories through unique experiences.

One of those experiences included participating in a Special Olympics event. Around 120 Special Olympics athletes and 15 NAIA women’s basketball teams came together for an event that has been 29 years in the making. The Hastings players joined the athletes in activities such as basketball, parachute games, and pickleball.

Freshman Amriah Pena said, “Being in the national tournament and experiencing the Special Olympics was a rewarding experience, being surrounded by positive and supportive environments of athletes from all NAIA schools.”

In addition to the Special Olympics event, the overall experience—especially playing in the Sweet Sixteen—was unforgettable for the team. Freshman Dalia Durant said, “I would say it was just exciting to be able to go, and the things we got to do were such a good experience. In general, it was a fun experience!”

In the Sweet Sixteen matchup on Thursday, March 19, Hastings fell just short to Saint Francis (Ind.) with a final score of 67–60. The team finished their season with an overall record of 24–9, highlighting the historic success of the Hastings College women’s basketball program.

With the season now complete, the team shifts its focus to next year.