The UTRGV Vaqueros women’s basketball team suffered a 70-64 loss to the St. Mary’s Rattlers in an exhibition game at the UTRGV Fieldhouse. Despite the defeat, sophomore forward Charlotte O’Keefe had an impressive performance with 18 points and nine rebounds. Junior Kade Hackerott also contributed with 15 points, five assists, and four rebounds. The Vaqueros showed good energy in the first quarter, taking an early lead with a three-pointer from Arianna Sturdivant. O’Keefe’s strong presence on the offensive boards helped extend the lead, but the Rattlers fought back and took a one-point lead at the end of the quarter. In the second quarter, St. Mary’s went on a run and held a halftime lead of 36-28. The Vaqueros made a comeback in the third quarter, but the Rattlers maintained their advantage heading into the final quarter. Despite a late surge from the Vaqueros, St. Mary’s held on to win the exhibition game. The Vaqueros will officially begin their season on Tuesday against Texas Tech.