CAGUAS, Puerto Rico — Midwestern State University (3-5) defeated the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras (0-3), 81-38, at Coliseo Roger Mendoza, dominating with 46 points in the paint and forcing 27 turnovers.
Midwestern State opened the first quarter with a strong performance, leading the Jerezanas 18-12 by the end.
Ta'Leeyah Glynn initiated the scoring with a three-pointer at 9:28, setting the pace for the visitors.
Kerbie Cash contributed significantly, securing multiple offensive rebounds and scoring both inside and at the free-throw line, including a tip-in at 3:07. The Jerezanas struggled with turnovers, committing seven in the quarter, which limited their scoring opportunities despite a late push that included a three-pointer from Deyaneira Rivera at 5:58.
The Mustangs extended their lead in the second quarter, outscoring Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras 19-10. Cash was instrumental, scoring multiple baskets including a pair of free throws at the 6:53 mark to push the lead to 26-17.
Calyssa Sevier contributed with a fast-break three-pointer at 4:03, adding to the visitors' momentum. Despite the Jerezanas' efforts, the Maroon & Gold maintained control, capitalizing on turnovers and second-chance opportunities to end the quarter with a 37-22 advantage.
The Mustangs dominated the third quarter with a strong offensive performance, outscoring the Jerezanas 23-8. Cash made a significant impact with multiple successful shots in the paint, including a layup at 6:59 and a fast-break jumper at 1:29, both contributing to MSU's commanding lead. The Jerezanas struggled offensively, committing eight turnovers and making just two field goals.
Carisa Cortez capped the quarter with a jumper at the buzzer, assisted by
Saylor Upshaw, extending the visitors' advantage to 60-30.
Midwestern St. dominated the fourth quarter, outscoring the Jerezanas 21-8 to secure a decisive victory. Sevier sparked the offensive surge with eight consecutive points, including a fast-break layup at 9:36.
Briann Warehime added a three-pointer at 6:20, assisted by Cortez, to extend the lead further. The visiting team maintained defensive pressure with five steals, contributing to seven turnovers by the Jerezanas. Upshaw sealed the game with two free throws, bringing the final score to 81-38.
Cash led the team with 32 points and collected 16 rebounds, showcasing efficient shooting with 12 field goals made on 21 attempts.
Caelyn Williams contributed 11 rebounds, including eight on the offensive end, and added eight points with a block. Sevier scored nine points and recorded two steals, enhancing the defensive effort. Glynn registered two steals and added six points, highlighting her defensive impact.
Jaymar Montanez led the defensive effort with two steals and added five points and three assists, despite committing five turnovers. Naheim Suarez contributed a team-high 11 points, primarily from the free-throw line, converting six of eight attempts. Rivera provided a strong presence on the boards with seven rebounds, while also scoring six points. Andrea Gonzalez added eight points and four rebounds before fouling out.
In their next game, the Mustangs will face off against Sacred Heart (P.R.) on Friday, Dec. 19 in Bayamon, Puerto Rico. Tip-off is set for 2:30 p.m. CT.
