By: Julian Orlando 

Mohawk Mountaineers women's basketball fell short of a comeback in their CCAA National Championship bronze quarterfinal matchup versus the Red Deer Queens, losing 80-70.

Despite the loss the Mountaineers proved they belonged in the National tournament, hanging around all game long. This included Mohawk coming within one-point in the fourth quarter before Red Deer pulled away for good.

The performance was up to the liking of Mohawk head coach Mihai Raducanu.

"I think the girls did everything that we asked them to do," Raducanu said. "I highlight Mohawk's energy; I highlight the fact that everybody was believing and that nobody gave up." 

Raducanu also mentioned that his team is putting up high-quality basketball against the best teams across the country and the girls are demonstrating what they are capable of. 

The first quarter saw the Queens hold a slight 23-22 edge on the Mountaineers. But prior to halftime Red Deer was able to extend their lead to 46-37.

Mohawk would start to pull closer in the third quarter, which included the Mountaineers being inches from taking the lead.

The win for the Queens means they have earned their spot into the National semifinals.

Mohawk's Angong Jacob (Calgary, AB) was named player of the game for the Mountaineers after scoring nine points, and getting four rebounds and three blocks.

The Mountaineers journey at Nationals doesn't end here, they'll play in a placement game on March 17 at 2 p.m. versus the MSVU Mystics.