LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The women's basketball team at Simmons College of Kentucky won a national championship on Saturday.

Simmons defeated No. 3 Toccoa Falls College 79-70 to win the National Christian College Athletic Association Division II national title. It's the first national championship in the school's history. 

Morgan Defoor scored 30 points, making six 3-pointers and Andrea Seay added 16 points for Simmons. Defoor was named the tournament's Most Outstanding Player. 

After leading by six points at halftime, Simmons extended its lead to double digits late in the third quarter. Simmons protected its lead by shooting 60% from the field in the fourth quarter.

The victory in Saint Bonifacius, Minnesota on Saturday capped a seven-game winning streak for Simmons to end the season and claim the national title. 

"During the season they dared to play NCAA Division I competition," Dr. Kevin Cosby, president of Simmons College of Kentucky, posted on X. "They were often beat up by superior talent. But what beats you up can build you up if you let it. Challenges create champions! Fly Falcons fly."

Coached by Earl Ruffin, Simmons first defeated North Central University with a 19-point win in the opening round of the tournament as Defoor scored 31 points. Simmons then defeated Crown College as Jayla Johnson finished with 19 points.

Defoor and Naria Reed were selected to the All-Tournament team. 

"Congratulations to Simmons College of Kentucky's Lady Falcons on making history," Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg posted on X. "Louisville is so proud of you all and this incredible accomplishment." 

Cosby said on X that all the seniors on the team will graduate with a degree in May.

Founded in 1879, Simmons College of Kentucky is Louisville's only Historically Black College and University. To learn more about Simmons College, click here. 

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