A Tiger-on-Tiger matchup between Louisiana State University and Missouri flooded Mizzou Arena with roars on Thursday, Feb 6. 

Missouri kept it close through the majority of the game before LSU pulled away following a 15-1 run in the third quarter. After a long fought battle, head coach Kim Mulkey’s Tigers and its barrage of jumpers were too much for Missouri to match, ending in a 71-60 win for LSU. 

The 15-11 run was emphasized as a key part of the loss. 

“I do think it (really) came down to that two-and-a-half, three minute stretch in the third.” Missouri head coach Robin Pingeton said.

Heading into the matchup, all eyes were on LSU’s Flau’Jae Johnson. The junior came into the game averaging 20 points per match, No.5 in the SEC. Missouri slowed her down in the first quarter and Johsnon only scored two points. 

The trio of Grace Slaughter, Ashton Judd and Laniah Randle kept Missouri alive with 50 out of 60 points. Judd had a night from range, knocking down four triples on eight attempts. 

Angelique Ngalakulondi recorded a season-best of 12 rebounds, making her presence felt on the glass. Her impact wouldn’t be felt at the game’s end however, as she fouled out in the fourth quarter. 

This is Missouri’s third close loss against ranked opponents. 

“This is the same story every game lately, right? We’re right there, right? So close.” Pingeton said. “They’re warriors.” 

Missouri’s next matchup was at College Station against the Texas A&M Aggies, and started on Sunday, Feb 9, at 3 p.m.

Edited by Dylan Heinrich | dheinrich@themaneater.com

Copyedited by Hannah Taylor | htaylor@themaneater.com

Edited by Annie Goodykoontz | agoodykoontz@themaneater.com