YUMA, Ariz - The Arizona Western women's basketball team are this week's Chapman Yuma "Players of the Week." The Lady Matadors defeated No. 1 nationally ranked Eastern Arizona in the Region I final 51-50, while on the road, to claim the Region title and a trip to the national tournament for the second year in a row. 

"Very very proud of the group," Arizona Western head coach Chelsea Dewey said. "They came together and found a way to get it done in a tough environment." 

Not only did the Lady Matadors defeat the top ranked team in the country, but also the top seed in the region and a team riding a 29-game winning streak. Arizona Western accomplished the feat on the road, in Eastern Arizona's own gymnasium. 

"I'm excited to be going back to the national tournament," Team captain Mable Doumbia said. "All credit to our coach, she's the one that kept us going. She wants 100 percent every day. She pushes us hard, so we're prepared."

Arizona Western will make its second consecutive trip to the NJCAA DI women's basketball national tournament under head coach Chelsea Dewey. Arizona Western is placed as the No. 17 seed and will open the tournament next Tuesday, March 24th, against the No. 16 seed, New Mexico.

"I don't love the seed," Dewey said. "It is what it is, it's another opportunity and you don't take these opportunities for granted. It's an opportunity for these young ladies to go showcase themselves."

Arizona Western will kick off the first game of the tournament with tip off scheduled for 8:00 a.m. MT on Tuesday, March 24th. The national tournament is being held at the Townsley Law Arena in Lake Charles, Louisiana.