BTN.com staff, March 24, 2014

(AP) Morgan Bailey tied her career high with 18 points, Jennifer Hamson had 15 points and 14 rebounds, and BYU held on to beat Nebraska 80-76 Monday night, advancing to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA women's tournament for the first time since 2002.

Lexi Eaton added 15 points and Xojian Harry hit three 3-pointers in the final eight minutes for the 12th-seeded Cougars (28-6), who became just the third No. 12 seed to reach the final 16.

They led by 17 points in the first half on the way to their second straight upset. The Cougars defeated No. 5 seed North Carolina State in the first round at UCLA's Pauley Pavilion. Next up is either Connecticut or St. Joseph's.

Tear'a Laudermill scored 22 points and Big Ten player of the year Jordan Hooper added 20 points for fourth-seeded Nebraska (26-7), which now hosts a regional it won't be playing in.

BYU 80, NEBRASKA 76 | RECAP | BOX