MARYVILLE, Mo. - The Northwest Missouri State University women's basketball team won their first MIAA home opener since 2012 by defeating the Northeastern State RiverHawks 62-40. After hopping out to a 29-20 lead at the half the Bearcats allowed the RiverHawks to go on a 10-2 run. This run was followed by an 11-3 run by the Bearcats, including two three-pointers made by Mia Stillman, to end the quarter 41-33. The fourth quarter was all Northwest, with the Bearcats winning the quarter 21-7.
Northwest's defense stepped up once again this year allowing only 42 points and holding to Northeastern to only 32.7% from the field. This is the fifth time this year that the Bearcats have held their opponent under 50 points. The Bearcats went 41% from the field and from the three-point line, along with making all nine of their free throws. The Bearcats outrebounded the RiverHawks 33-26 and had three less turnovers.
Mallory McConkey led all scorers with 17 points, going 5-12 from the field. Kendey Eaton was also in double figures for the Bearcats. Stillman led the team with nine rebounds, and Erika Schlosser led the team with eight assists.
Shae Sanchez was the only RiverHawk in double figures with 12 points. Cenia Hayes led Northeastern with nine rebounds, and the RiverHawks were held to just two assists on the game.
Northwest will be back in action Monday Jan. 6 at 5:30 p.m. against Rogers State.
--- Northwest Athletics ---