Missouri women’s basketball claimed a close win against Southern Methodist University, narrowly escaping the Mustangs 68-61.

In the first quarter, both the teams were neck and neck. Forward Angelique Ngalakulondi tied up the score early 2-2 with a layup. Guard Nyah Wilson would put Missouri in the lead 5-2 with a three-pointer.

A three pointer and a layup from Grace Slaughter helped the Tigers build a strong lead of 14-6. SMU tried to catch up, but the Tiger’s offense held them off.

Ashton Judd and Slaughter both made baskets setting the score to 19-11. With two free throws from forward Hannah Linthacum, Missouri wrapped up the quarter with a 21-13 lead.

SMU strengthened its offense in the second quarter and the Tigers had to up its defensive intensity to match it. Sharpshooting guard Abbey Schreacke broke the Tiger’s silence with a jumper. Linthacum, shortly followed with a layup to increase the lead to 25-18.

The Mustangs followed close on the Tiger’s tail, but a jumper and free throw from Slaughter and Linthacum would solidify the Tiger’s lead in the second quarter 33-29.

The Tigers came back strong in the third quarter with scores from Slaughter, Wilson and Judd putting the score at 40-31.

In the final quarter, Schreacke shot two free throws, then scored back to back three-pointers resulting in a 61-56 lead. Wilson would wrap up the game with two free throws, ending the game 68-61.

Slaughter was the top scorer with 17 points and the top defender with 10 rebounds. Schreacke followed closely behind with 16 points and a rebound. 

The Tigers played Northern Illinois on Dec. 7 at 2 p.m. at the Mizzou Arena.

Edited by Michael Stamps | mstamps@themaneater.com

Copyedited by Hannah taylor | htaylor@themaneater.com

Edited by Emily Skidmore | eskidmore@themaneater.com