DENTON, Texas — Midwestern State (4-11, 1-8 Lone Star) fell to No. 3 Texas Woman's (16-1, 10-0 Lone Star), 66-55, at Kitty Magee Arena. Despite a season-high of 13 steals and 35 points from the bench, the Mustangs could not overcome the Pioneers' 46 points in the paint.
The first quarter between the Mustangs and TWU started with to a fast-break tip-in by Gabby Elliott, putting the home team on the board. TWU dominated early, with Averee Kleinhans and Jada Celsur contributing to a 6-0 lead. MSU's offense struggled with turnovers and missed shots, allowing the Pioneers to capitalize and extend their lead to 13-4.
Catalina Cortez narrowed the gap with a three-pointer at 1:43, but Avery McConnell's free throws and a last-second layup by Jada Celsur extended the Pioneers' lead to 19-9 at the end of the quarter.
TWU extended their lead in the second quarter, capitalizing on the inside game with 16 points in the paint. Kayla Glover contributed significantly, recording a tip-in at 8:09 and assisting Averee Kleinhans for a three-pointer at 4:50. The Maroon & Gold responded with
Katy Greathouse scoring five points, including a three-pointer, assisted by
Veonce Powell at 6:37. Despite the Maroon & Gold's effort to keep pace, Glover's layup with 3:44 remaining maintained the momentum for TWU. The quarter concluded with Gabby Elliott's layup at the buzzer, giving TWU a 39-27 advantage heading into halftime.
In the third quarter, TWU capitalized on their defense and rebounding to widen their lead over the Maroon & Gold. The home team recorded four steals and 12 points in the paint, with Gabby Elliott contributing several defensive rebounds and free throws. Averee Kleinhans added a critical layup at the 1:36 mark, assisted by Avery McConnell, to extend the margin. Despite a late jumper by
Kerbie Cash and free throws from
Ta'Leeyah Glynn, the Mustangs trailed 56-37 at the end of the quarter.
The Mustangs outscored TWU 18-10 in the final quarter but fell short in their comeback effort, finishing with a 66-55 loss.
Carisa Cortez sparked the visitors with a three-pointer at 8:20, reducing the deficit to 19 points.
Veonce Powell contributed significantly with a jumper at 6:02 and a pair of free throws at 5:26, cutting into the lead. Despite Caleynn Williams' four successful free throws in the final minute, TWU maintained control, securing the victory.
Veonce Powell scored 14 points and recorded two steals, showcasing her effectiveness in both scoring and defense.
Ta'Leeyah Glynn contributed 13 points and posted four steals, demonstrating a strong defensive presence.
Katy Greathouse added nine points, converting 4 of 7 field goals, while also collecting four rebounds.
Caelyn Williams recorded six points and secured five rebounds, providing a solid performance on the boards.
Gabby Elliott led with a standout performance, scoring 20 points and securing 17 rebounds, including 9 on the offensive end. She also contributed two blocks to the team's defensive efforts. Averee Kleinhans added 14 points while leading with four steals and five total rebounds. Jada Celsur matched Kleinhans with 14 points and four steals, supplementing her contribution with seven rebounds. Kayla Glover was pivotal as well, scoring eight points, gathering six rebounds, and dishing out three assists.
Looking ahead, the Mustangs will travel to face Cameron on Thursday, Jan. 29. The game is set for 5:30 p.m. at Aggie Gym in Lawton, Texas.
