TOPEKA, Kan. — Missouri Southern State (19-9, 13-6 Mid-America Intercollegiate) fell to Washburn (21-7, 14-5 Mid-America Intercollegiate), 83-64, at Lee Arena on Saturday. The Lions tallied 14 steals and converted 26 points off turnovers but struggled offensively, shooting 33.9% from the field and just 8.3% from beyond the arc. Despite a third-quarter surge with 23 points, Southern could not overcome Washburn's balanced attack, which included 49 rebounds and a 9-of-23 performance from three-point range.
Missouri Southern opened the game with effective defensive pressure, forcing seven turnovers and converting those opportunities into six points. Thomas led the offense early, draining a three-pointer at 8:38 to establish a brief lead. Despite the strong start, Washburn responded with key scoring from the perimeter, including two three-pointers by Madelyn Amekporfor, helping it to regain momentum. Throughout the quarter, Southern capitalized on free throw opportunities, converting five of six attempts. Lillard's free throws in the final minute brought Southern within striking distance, but Washburn's ability to control the boards, particularly on the defensive end, maintained its edge. The quarter ended with Washburn leading 18-14.
The second quarter saw Southern engage in a competitive battle, with Thomas contributing early to cut the deficit to one point. Despite the effort, Washburn responded with a series of successful plays in the paint, extending their lead. Frazier's fast break layup at 5:07 provided a momentary boost, but Washburn maintained control with consistent scoring, including a late 3-pointer by Gabi Giovannetti. As the quarter progressed, Southern continued to challenge defensively, with Lillard recording a steal. Despite this, Washburn closed the quarter with a strong finish, capitalizing on free throws and a final layup to push their lead. The quarter ended with Washburn leading 40-27.
Southern opened the third quarter with a strong surge, scoring 23 points by capitalizing on second-chance opportunities and fast breaks. Clay's early free throws set the tone, and the team continued to press with effective scoring in the paint, highlighted by Thomas and Frazier's contributions. The Lions effectively outscored Washburn 14-6 in the paint during this quarter. Despite Washburn's efforts with three 3-pointers, Southern maintained defensive pressure, forcing turnovers and securing crucial defensive rebounds. The quarter closed with Southern narrowing the gap to a 62-50 deficit, setting up a challenging final quarter.
The Lions started the fourth quarter against Washburn with a focus on defense, grabbing five steals that slowed the home team's momentum. Despite struggling with field goals, making just 2 of 15 attempts, Southern capitalized on free throws, converting 10 of 15 from the line to remain competitive. Clay played a pivotal role in maintaining pressure with multiple steals and contributing seven points from the free-throw line, including a pair of fast-break free throws at 6:24 that cut into Washburn's lead. The scoring effort was supported by Thomas, who added a jumper in the paint. Despite Southern's defensive efforts and free-throw success, Washburn secured the quarter by shooting efficiently from the field and the line, closing out with a 21-14 quarter advantage. This extended Washburn's overall lead, concluding the game with a final score of 83-64.
Missouri Southern will now turn its focus to the MIAA Conference Championships, where the Lions will continue postseason play next week.
