WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.- The Palm Beach Atlantic University women’s basketball team overcame a 13-point halftime deficit on Tuesday evening against Emmanuel College in the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) South Regional Tournament final and earned a 60-56 victory in what was a memorable night for all who attended at the Rubin Arena.

The Lady Lions, who were ranked #1 in the NCCAA National rankings coming into the regional tournament and held that same distinction against the #3-ranked Sailfish on Tuesday night, jumped out to a double-digit lead in the first-half thanks in large part to the amazing outside shooting of their guards.

The Sailfish would adjust however and limit the Lions to only 2-of-13 from beyond the arc in the second-half and ride their solid defensive effort to a four-point victory.

Senior Melissa Perez led the Fish with 24 points on the night on 6-of-11 shooting including 4-of-7 from beyond the arc and 8-of-10 at the free-throw line.

Chanell Byrd led the squad with a double-double effort pulling down 11 rebounds to go along with her 15 points. Lynsey Poole chipped in eight points.

The Regional Championship bring the Fish their first-ever berth to the NCCAA National Tournament beginning March 12th-14th at Grace College in Winona Lake, Indiana.

Stay tuned for more details on this game and the national tournament.