DePauw withstood a Washington U. second-half rally and blocked a potential game tying 3-pointer to capture its first women's basketball championship 55-52. Halsey Ward, who hit four 3-pointers in the game, was smothered by the Tigers' defense which held the Bears 15 points below their season scoring average.

For DePauw, the weekend was a gut check that was passed with flying colors. Liz Bondi paced the Tigers' offense early and Suzy Doughty and Cassie Pruzin hit big shots late. The three seniors combined for 30 points in the low scoring affair. Photo gallery, with more images to come.

"Even though they cut into the lead, we never got nervous," Bondi said. "We have been in that situation before. We knew they were a great team and at some point they would come back, but we managed to withstand their run."

Washington U. was led by Halsey Ward (16 points) and Jaimie McFarlin (12 points, 11 rebounds) who are both just sophomores.

Bondi, who is an All American in basketball and tennis, won game, set, match and the tournament most oustanding player award. She was joined on the All-Tournament team by Doughty, McFarlin, Debbie Bruen (Mary Washington) and Stephanie Ryba (NYU). Mary Washington won the third-place game 74-63.

DePauw coach Kris Huffman was named D3hoops.com Coach of the Year. Check out that and the full 2006-07 All-American team.