Miami, FL- In a Top-25 showdown that lived up to the billing, No. 25 Monroe came up just short against No. 5 Gulf Coast State, falling 98-89 in a high-tempo battle that stayed within a single possession deep into the fourth quarter. The Mustangs traded runs with one of the nation's premier teams and even held a nine-point lead late in the second quarter, but a late surge from the Commodores ultimately decided the matchup.

Hellary De Los Santos delivered one of her best performances of the season, pouring in 31 points and grabbing 13 rebounds while carrying Monroe's offense through long stretches. Sydney Huskey added 18 points, five assists and three steals, and Fabiana Poindujour contributed 15 points and six assists as Monroe's backcourt kept the pressure on all night. Eniyah Stinnette provided a spark off the bench with 10 rebounds and four points.

Monroe led 53-44 at halftime after a strong second quarter, but Gulf Coast showed why they're ranked fifth nationally, shooting over 50% from the field and answering every Mustang run with timely shot-making. The third quarter swung the momentum as the Commodores outscored Monroe 24-13, setting up a tense fourth period.

Despite the shift, Monroe refused to go away. With just under three minutes remaining, a fast-break layup from Huskey cut the deficit to 87-85, putting the Mustangs in striking distance. Gulf Coast responded with a pair of dagger threes and closed the night on a 13-4 run as Arianny Francisco De Oliveira and Myla Benton combined for 48 points.

Even in the loss, Monroe proved they can compete possession-for-possession with one of the nation's elite programs. The Mustangs look to close out the Jim and Jan Cox Classic with a win tomorrow as they face Pensacola State College.

ABOUT THE ATHLETIC PROGRAM AT MONROE UNIVERSITY
The athletic program at Monroe University encompasses a total of 26 teams competing across nine sports. There are 19 varsity and junior varsity programs, as well as the Monroe University marching band, competing on the New Rochelle campus as the Mustangs (NJCAA Division I). The Monroe Express, based out of the Bronx campus, has seven teams competing at the NJCAA Division III level.
 
For more information about the Monroe Mustangs, please visit us at www.MonroeUMustangs.com or follow us on social media: Facebook (Monroe Mustangs Athletics), Twitter (@MonroeMustangs) and Instagram (@monroemustangs).