WICHITA FALLS, Texas — Midwestern State (1-2) was defeated by Southeastern Oklahoma State (3-2), 97-59, at D.L. Ligon Coliseum, as the visitors capitalized on a strong first quarter, outscoring the Mustangs 37-18. The Maroon & Gold managed to secure 35 rebounds and record 10 steals.
The game commenced with Southeastern Oklahoma's Tori Kilburn scoring a jumper to take an early lead. MSU responded with
Veonce Powell equalizing with a jumper of her own.
Kerbie Cash was active for Midwestern State, contributing multiple baskets, including a layup at 6:43 to tie the game at 10-10. However, Southeastern Oklahoma surged ahead with a series of 3-pointers, including two from Mackenzie Espinosa, widening the gap. Kenzli Warden closed the quarter for Southeastern Oklahoma with a layup, securing a 37-18 lead at the end of the first quarter.
The Savage Storm converted 9 of 11 from 3-point range in the first quarter. Espinsoa was 4 of 6 from the field and 3 of 4 shots from beyond the arc in the opening 10 minutes.
Southeastern Oklahoma maintained their advantage in the second quarter, outscoring the Mustangs by a narrow margin of 15-13. Kilburn contributed with a layup at the 8:24 mark, assisted by Breanna Lindert. MSU's Cash responded with a three-point play, converting a layup and a free throw at 5:41. Despite the Mustangs' efforts, Southeastern Oklahoma extended their lead with Katelynn Allen and Lindert adding to the score. The quarter concluded with
Catalina Cortez making two free throws for Midwestern State, narrowing the deficit to 52-31.
Southeastern Oklahoma dominated the third quarter, outscoring MSU 28-13. Warden initiated the scoring with a layup just 10 seconds into the quarter, contributing significantly with a total of nine points in the period. Akiera Hawk and Kilburn also made key plays, with Hawk adding a 3-pointer at 8:08 and Kilburn scoring on fast breaks. The Maroon & Gold's efforts included a 3-pointer from Powell and a jumper by
Calyssa Sevier, but frequent turnovers and missed opportunities hindered their momentum. The visitors extended their lead with strong defensive rebounds and fast break points, maintaining control throughout the quarter.
Southeastern Oklahoma began the fourth quarter strong, with Allen completing a three-point play just 20 seconds in, extending their lead. MSU's Cash responded with a jumper at 9:05 to narrow the gap slightly. Despite Cash's efforts, Southeastern Oklahoma's Connie Hughes and Chloe Eversole maintained the lead with key layups and a 3-pointer, respectively. Southeastern Oklahoma sustained their advantage, closing the game with a 3-pointer by Brenna Howard, securing a 97-59 victory. This victory marked a significant milestone for Southeastern Oklahoma State head coach Darin Glover, as he celebrated his 300th win as head coach.
Cash led the team with 22 points, converting 8 of 10 free throws and recording nine rebounds.
Catalina Cortez contributed defensively with two steals and added two points from the free-throw line.
Macie Upshaw posted two blocks and added four points, despite fouling out.
Carisa Cortez also made an impact on defense with two steals and one assist.
Warden led Southeastern Oklahoma with 16 points, connecting on 6 of 9 shots from the field, including two 3-pointers, while also contributing four assists and six rebounds. Espinosa added 14 points, making 5 of 9 field goals and sinking three from beyond the arc, along with three rebounds and four assists. Halli Hyatt facilitated the offense with five assists and contributed six points and six rebounds. Kilburn provided a defensive presence with two blocks and two steals, adding 11 points on 4 of 7 shooting. Hughes was effective defensively, recording two steals and scoring six points.
In their next matchup, the Mustangs host East Central at D.L. Ligon Coliseum on Saturday, Nov. 29 at 1 p.m. T
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