SAN ANTONIO – Crystal Chidomere scored a game-high 26 points in her season debut, but it was not enough for UTSA, which dropped a 69-68 decision in overtime to UT Arlington on Wednesday night at the Convocation Center.
The Roadrunners (1-2) used a 13-5 run at the end of regulation to force the extra period.
After Tija Hawkins scored the first basket in overtime, the Mavericks (3-0) went on an 8-4 run over the next 4:36 to build a 69-65 advantage. Tasharian Robinson hit a 3-pointer as time expired to make the game a one-point decision.
UTSA trailed 17-16 at the end of the first quarter, but the second period turned in favor of the hosts.
The Roadrunners used a 15-5 spurt to start the second quarter to build a 31-22 lead. Marie Benson fueled the run with six points, while Chidomere added four.
However, the Mavericks closed the gap in the final three minutes of the half, using a 7-0 run to pull within two points (31-29). Crystal Allen scored five of the seven points during the run, including three from the free-throw line.
UT Arlington rallied in the final four minutes of the third quarter and took a 47-43 lead into the final period.
The Mavericks used the momentum in the fourth to take a 56-48 advantage with 5:20 left on the clock.
UTSA then mounted a comeback which forced the extra period.
Chidomere spurred a 6-1 run with a pair of buckets and two free throws to pull the Roadrunners within three points (57-54) with 4:08 left.
Two minutes later, Benson picked up a loose ball in the lane and was fouled on the layup to tie the game (59-59).
UTSA briefly took a 61-59 lead after Robinson leaked out for a layup following a turnover.
However, UT Arlington received a game-tying layup from Allen with 1:00 remaining.
After a turnover, the Mavericks had a chance to win the game in regulation, but the Roadrunners forced a shot clock violation on the last possession.
Allen led four UT Arlington players into double figures with 21 points.
Chidomere was joined in double digits by Benson's double-double of 13 points and 12 rebounds.
The Roadrunners will return to action Friday, in a road tilt at No. 2 Texas. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. in Austin and will be broadcast on the Longhorn Network.
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