MISSION, Mo. — The Mission Lady Patriots delivered a strong second-half performance Saturday afternoon, pulling away in the final period to earn a 70–59 home conference victory over the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy at W.E. Dowell Fieldhouse.
Pregame
Mission entered the matchup looking to bounce back after a narrow 74–70 loss to Stephens College and improve its position in conference play. The Lady Patriots came in at 9–11 overall and 5–5 in conference action. UHSP arrived at 10–10 overall and 7–3 in the conference, coming off a 104–80 win over Central Baptist.
The game marked the second meeting between the teams this season after Mission dropped a close road contest earlier in the year.
Game Summary
Mission set the tone early behind active defense and efficient offense, jumping out to a 15–8 lead after the first quarter. The Lady Patriots limited UHSP's looks and controlled the tempo in the opening period.
UHSP answered in the second quarter, outscoring Mission 22–11 to take a 30–26 lead into halftime. Mission stayed within reach by attacking the glass and getting to the free-throw line despite cold shooting from the perimeter.
The momentum shifted after the break. Mission came out with energy in the third quarter, scoring 23 points and regaining the lead. The Lady Patriots' balanced attack pushed them ahead 49–48 heading into the final frame.
The fourth quarter belonged to Mission. The Lady Patriots tightened defensively and executed down the stretch, outscoring UHSP 21–11 in the period. Strong interior play, timely finishes, and clutch free throws allowed Mission to steadily build separation and secure the 70–59 home conference victory.
Stat Leaders (Mission Only)
Ireland Jones — 16 pts, 7 reb, 3 stl
Miya Nieto — 11 pts, 2 3FG, 3 reb
Hannah Maxwell — 10 pts, 8 reb
Tara Masten — 10 pts, 3 ast, 4 stl
Jayla Kirksey — 8 pts, 8 reb
Postgame
With the win, Mission improved to 10–11 overall and 6–5 in conference play. The Lady Patriots were strong on the glass with 49 total rebounds and lived at the free-throw line, converting 24-of-31 attempts to control the game late.
Next Up
Mission continues conference play on the road at Central Baptist College on Tuesday, Feb. 3, with tipoff scheduled for 5:30 p.m.
