The Talladega College women's basketball team battled until the final buzzer Sunday afternoon, falling 67-60 to Rust College in the Hope Credit Union HBCU Athletic Conference Championship at Stillman College.

While the Tornadoes (16-9) came up just short of the tournament title, their postseason journey continues. As the HBCUAC Tournament Runner-Up, Talladega has earned an automatic bid to the NAIA Women's Basketball National Tournament. The Tornadoes' opponent and game location will be announced soon.

Rust (18-10) opened the game with a 15-10 first quarter edge and built a 37-24 halftime lead behind efficient perimeter shooting and strong free-throw performance. The Bearcats connected on seven three-pointers and converted 16-of-19 from the line.

Talladega responded with resilience in the second half. The Tornadoes outscored Rust 17-12 in the third quarter to cut the deficit to single digits entering the fourth. Teanna Watts led the charge offensively, attacking the paint and creating scoring opportunities.

The Tornadoes continued to apply pressure in the final frame, winning the fourth quarter 19-18, but were unable to fully erase the deficit as Rust secured the championship in the closing minutes.

Watts finished with 18 points, six rebounds, and four assists to lead Talladega. Olympia Chaney added 12 points, while Courtney Lowe contributed 10. La'Daja Caldwell anchored the glass with nine rebounds.

Talladega forced 13 turnovers and collected 36 rebounds in the contest, continuing to show the toughness and defensive intensity that has defined its season.

Under the leadership of Head Coach Andre Payne, the Tornadoes have positioned themselves on the national stage and will now prepare for the NAIA Women's Basketball National Tournament.

The season is far from over, Talladega is headed to the Big Dance.

Stay tuned for selection details.