Bryan Captures 2021 Women's Basketball Tournament TItle

KINGSPORT, Tenn. - Bryan returned to the top of the mountain as it won the 2021 Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) Women's Basketball Tournament championship with an 80-62 victory over third-seeded Reinhardt on Friday.

Bryan had won three of the previous four tournament crowns.

The tournament is being held at the MeadowView Marriot Convention Center & Conference Resort in Kingsport, Tenn.

The Lady Lions seized control of the game in the first half, hitting 50 percent (18-of-36) from the field in building a 50-25 halftime lead. Reinhardt put together some runs in the second half, but never got within striking disance as Bryan locked up the title.

Bryan controlled the glass, outrebounding Reinhardt 51-40. The Lady Lions also took care of business at the foul line, hitting 23-of-30 (76.7 percent).

Destiny Kassner of Bryan earned Tournament MVP honors, finishing with 25 points and 13 rebounds in the title game. Joining her on the All-Tournament Team are Shayla Ludy and Gracee Dishman of Bryan, Abi Haynes and Catherine Shope of Reinhardt, Brooke Hammonds of Union, and Hannah Williams of Point.

With the tournament title win, Bryan earns an automatic berth to the NAIA National Championship Tournament. The other qualifiers from the AAC and the rest of the national tournament field will be announced next week.