PHILADELPHIA (Interstat) — Saint Joseph’s built a steady lead and withstood a late push to defeat La Salle 69-65 in an Atlantic 10 women’s basketball game Wednesday night at Tom Gola Arena.

The Hawks led 32-28 at halftime and extended their advantage to eight points entering the fourth quarter. The Explorers mounted a comeback, outscoring Saint Joseph’s 20-18 in the final period, but fell short. The Hawks swept the regular-season series, having also won on Jan. 10.

Saint Joseph’s improved to 14-6 overall. La Salle dropped to 11-10. Attendance was 385.