AUSTIN, Texas — Midwestern State (4-7, 1-4 Lone Star) dropped a Sunday matchup with St. Edward's (9-4, 3-2 Lone Star), 80-52, at the Recreation and Convocation Center. The Hilltoppers capitalized on 25 turnovers, scoring 29 points off those opportunities.
The first quarter saw SEU take control early on, leading to a 27-12 advantage over the Mustangs.
Veonce Powell initiated the scoring with a layup for MSU, assisted by
Kerbie Cash. However, SEU responded with a strong offensive display, highlighted by Kendall Beck and Mikah Chapman's contributions in the paint.
Calyssa Sevier provided a brief spark for the Mustangs with consecutive layups late in the quarter. Despite eight steals by the Maroon & Gold, the Hilltoppers maintained their lead with efficient shooting, converting 12 of 14 baskets.
SEU capitalized on turnovers to extend their lead in the second quarter, outscoring MSU 20-12. Kiana Bennett's three-pointer at 7:11, pushed the score to 32-14 in favor of the home team. Despite a strong effort from
Carisa Cortez, who contributed with a fast-break layup and a three-pointer, the Mustangs struggled to close the gap. The quarter concluded with Suni Davis and Ramsey Robledo each making free throws, securing a 47-24 halftime advantage for SEU.
Midwestern State opened the third quarter with a strong defensive effort, as Cortez and Powell each secured early steals, leading to a quick four points. Despite this momentum, SEU responded effectively, with Beck scoring eight consecutive points, including a layup at 5:30 assisted by Bennett, to extend their lead. Cortez tried to keep the Mustangs in contention with a couple of successful jumpers, totaling six points in the quarter. However, SEU maintained control, closing the quarter with a jumper from Beck at the 20-second mark, finishing the quarter 65-36 in their favor.
In the fourth quarter, the Mustangs outscored the Hilltoppers 16-15 but ultimately fell short. Sevier contributed significantly with multiple successful jumpers, including a fast-break score at 7:56, narrowing the gap to 65-41. SEU responded with a key three-pointer by Jae'La Hicks at 7:39, maintaining their lead. Despite the efforts of Cortez, who added points from the free-throw line, SEU secured their victory with consistent free-throw shooting down the stretch, including two from Council at 2:50. The game concluded with a layup by
Saylor Upshaw with nine seconds remaining, finalizing the score at 80-52 in favor of SEU.
Cortez led the Mustangs with 16 points, adding two steals and two assists. Sevier contributed 10 points and collected four steals, while also securing four offensive rebounds. Powell scored nine points and recorded three steals, contributing on both sides of the ball.
Bennett led the charge for the Hilltoppers with 18 points, converting 7 of 10 field goals, including two 3-pointers. Bennett also dished out five assists and collected three steals. Davis contributed 14 points, making 5 of 9 shots and adding three assists. Chapman was efficient, scoring 10 points on 5 of 6 shooting, while also recording seven rebounds, two blocks, and two steals. Beck added 17 points, making 8 of 11 attempts, and controlled the boards with eight rebounds. Jasmyn Jackson provided defensive prowess with three blocks and added four points.
In their next game, the Mustangs will host #7 Lubbock Christian at D.L. Ligon Coliseum in Wichita Falls, Texas. The matchup is set for Thursday, Jan. 8 at 5:30 p.m. CT.
