Rust College Women’s Basketball Captures 2026 HBCUAC Tournament Championship

Holly Springs, Miss. — The Rust College Lady Bearcats are conference champions once again!

Rust College Women’s Basketball claimed the 2026 HBCU Athletic Conference (HBCUAC) Tournament Championship, securing the program’s fourth tournament title in the past five years and the first under the newly renamed HBCUAC banner.

After finishing the regular season with an impressive 10–2 conference record, the Lady Bearcats entered the tournament focused and determined. The championship run also served as redemption after last season’s heartbreaking second-round loss to Dillard University by just two points.

This year, Rust left no doubt.

The Lady Bearcats opened tournament play with a dominant 79–49 victory over Huston-Tillotson University in the first round. Rust followed with a strong 72–58 win over Paul Quinn College in the second round.

In the semifinals, Rust faced its toughest test of the tournament, battling back from a 13 point deficit in a down-to-the-wire thriller to defeat Oakwood University, 74–71, showcasing resilience and championship composure.

The title game brought another high-level matchup as Rust squared off against Talladega College. The Lady Bearcats closed the tournament with a statement performance, earning a 67–60 victory to secure the championship trophy.

Championship night belonged to senior leaders Patsy Johnson and Genae Garner, who combined for 46 of Rust’s 67 points. Johnson led the way with 25 points, 5 assists, and 4 steals, while Garner delivered a lights-out shooting performance with 21 points and six made three-pointers.

Head Coach Jaleesa Sams praised her team’s focus and growth throughout the season.

“This group has shown resilience all year,” Sams said. “After last season’s early exit, they came back hungry and determined. Winning four championships in five years speaks to the culture of excellence within our program. I’m incredibly proud of how they competed and represented Rust College.”

With the conference championship secured, the Lady Bearcats now turn their attention to the national stage. Rust will have the next week to recover and prepare for the NAIA Women’s Basketball National Tournament, which begins March 13 in Sioux City, Iowa.