Grambling State University edged past Southern University on Saturday in the women’s championship game, winning 72-68. The victory also gives the Lady Tigers an automatic NCAA Tournament berth.

Rivals Grambling and Southern battled through each quarter, but tournament MVP Shakyla Hill went into clutch mode late in the fourth quarter with two 3-pointers, a free throw, and a steal to secure the win. Hill finished with a double-double of 27 points and 10 rebounds along with five assists and three steals. Senior guard Monisha Neal finished with 11 points, seven rebounds, one assist and a steal.

For the first time in 19 years @shakylaa_ and Lady Tigers of @GSU_TIGERS are SWAC Tournament Champions. @HBCUGameday

Photo: @DMonday_ pic.twitter.com/HrazNzIwHA

— Dominique Monday (@DMonday_) March 11, 2018

Grambling’s SWAC Championship and ticket to the NCAA Tournament is its first one in almost 20 years, with the last one coming in 1999. The five other trips for the Lady Tigers to the tournament also come from the 1990’s, including a four-year streak of appearances from 1996 through 1999.