HANCEVILLE — Cullman’s postseason run came to a close on Thursday following a 56-25 loss to Hartselle at the Northwest Regional Tournament.

The Bearcats, who downed Clay-Chalkville to advance to their first Sweet 16 since 2014, struggled against the defense of the No. 4 Tigers, shooting just 34 percent (11 of 32) and committing 17 turnovers.

Hartselle, meanwhile, drained nine 3-pointers to help punch its ticket to the Elite Eight.

Despite the tough outcome, Black and Gold coach Jessica McBrayer praised her team’s efforts this season while speaking optimistically about what she hopes is a bright future.

Cullman (15-13) graduates just three seniors and returns the bulk of its on-court production.

“It takes a lot of buy-in to get to a Sweet 16 in Year 2,” McBrayer said. “We’re a very young team. So for our team to get here and get some experience helps set the groundwork for what we want to come. The girls on the bench and in the stands; they’re getting to see something to believe in. You can’t be what you can’t see. These girls have given Cullman something to believe in and see in the future.”

Hattie Graham and Molly Wilson led the Bearcats in scoring with seven points apiece.