Oct. 17, 2007

RICHARDSON, Texas - Hardin-Simmons' women's basketball team has been picked to finish second in the American Southwest Conference West Division, behind defending champion Howard Payne, in voting done by the league's coaches, sports information directors and selected media.

The Cowgirls, who went 21-5 last season, return five lettermen from last year's team and will have an entire new starting lineup.

Meia Daniels of Howard Payne and Sade' Stewart of East Texas Baptist were named the ASC West and East preseason players of the year.

Howard Payne was picked to win the West, followed by HSU, McMurry, Mary Hardin-Baylor, Concordia, Schreiner, Sul Ross State and Texas Lutheran. East Texas Baptist was the overwhelming choice to win the ASC East.