Nov. 20, 2003

ABILENE, Texas - Hardin-Simmons' women's basketball team will open its 2003-04 season with a game at defending national champion Trinity on Friday at 7 p.m. in San Antonio.

The two teams met twice last season with the Cowgirls winning 69-56 early in the season and with the Tigers ended HSU's season with a 67-61 triumph in the Mabee Complex in the NCAA Tournament.

Hardin-Simmons will return two starters from a year ago and seven players that played last season are with the team. HSU must replace five departed seniors, including National Division III Player of the Year. Lauren Harris and Diana Martinez started every game for the Cowgirls last season.

Several newcomers are slated for action for the Cowgirls in the 2003-04 campaign. HSU was 27-1 a year ago.