MINNEAPOLIS – Sophomore forward Brynne Rolland’s team high 23 points wasn’t enough for the No. 3-ranked St. Thomas women’s basketball team, who lost 73-61 in the MIAC semifinal game against Augsburg Thursday at Si Melby Hall Gymnasium.

Rolland was perfect from the floor, making all ten of her shot attempts.

“Being strong with the ball and my teammates finding me helped,” Rolland said. “I’ve been working these past two years on being strong with the ball and finishing through the rim.”

The score was tied 32-32 at halftime; however, the momentum shifted in the Auggies’ (22-4) favor late in the third quarter.

“It was a fun atmosphere and a great game to play in, especially in playoffs,” junior guard Macy Hatlestad said. “But in the third quarter we had that stretch where we relaxed and got out of stance.”

The Tommies (21-6) shot 52% from the field but turned the ball over 26 times leading to 29 points for the Auggies.

“You got an experienced team in Augsburg versus an inexperienced team, and I thought there was a portion of the game where we choked,” coach Ruth Sinn said.

St. Thomas will now wait with hopes of an at-large bid to the NCAA Division III women’s basketball tournament.

“We are hoping to live to see another day,” Sinn said.

Selections for the NCAA Division III women’s basketball championship will take place at 2:30 p.m. on March 2.

Joey Swanson can be reached at swan5350@stthomas.edu.