SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — The Mission University Lady Patriots turned in a complete performance Thursday evening on Hilly Beck Court inside W.E. Dowell Fieldhouse, controlling all four quarters in a decisive 91–63 conference victory over Harris-Stowe State. Mission never trailed on the night, using efficient offense, rebounding dominance, and balanced scoring to improve to 7–7 overall and 3–1 in conference play. Harris-Stowe moves to 2–8 overall and 1–3 in conference action with the loss.
Pregame
Mission entered Thursday's matchup looking to build on the momentum from its dramatic 88–87 overtime conference victory over Central Baptist in its previous outing. The Lady Patriots opened the night 6–7 overall and 2–1 in conference play, aiming to continue establishing themselves as a strong contender in conference competition on their home floor at W.E. Dowell Fieldhouse.
Harris-Stowe arrived 2–7 overall and 1–2 in conference play, seeking a conference bounce-back after falling 75–49 in its last outing. The Lady Hornets looked to challenge Mission on the road, while the Lady Patriots aimed to protect home court and continue climbing in conference positioning.
Game Summary
Mission set the tone immediately, establishing control in the opening period with a 19–7 first quarter, fueled by defensive pressure, rebounding, and efficient early scoring. The Lady Patriots continued their strong play into the second quarter, outscoring Harris-Stowe 26–10 to build a commanding 45–17 halftime lead.
Mission maintained momentum after the break, delivering another dominant frame with a 24–14 third quarter to extend the advantage to 69–31 heading into the fourth. Harris-Stowe produced its highest-scoring stretch of the night in the final period with 32 fourth-quarter points, but Mission's lead remained firmly in hand as the Lady Patriots closed out the 91–63 conference win.
Mission finished the night shooting 47.1% from the field and 30.4% from three, while also converting 20-of-26 free throws (76.9%). The Lady Patriots controlled the boards with a 53–35 rebounding advantage, including 20 offensive rebounds, leading to extended possessions and second-chance scoring opportunities. Mission added 8 assists, 8 steals, and 3 blocks, contributing to a well-rounded performance.
Defensively, Mission limited Harris-Stowe to 33.8% shooting and 21.7% from beyond the arc, while forcing 13 turnovers. Harris-Stowe was led by 25 points from Alivia Montgomery and 15 each from Cailynn Dilosa and J'Lessa Jordan, but Mission's balance and overall efficiency proved decisive throughout the night.
Stat Leaders — Mission
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Ireland Jones: 25 pts, 7 reb, 3 ast, 3 stl
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Miya Nieto: 24 pts, 9 reb, 1 stl
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Naomi Daugherty: 16 pts, 5 reb
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Tara Masten: 10 pts, 3 ast, 2 stl
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Hannah Maxwell: 4 pts, 9 reb, 2 stl, 1 blk
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Jayla Kirksey: 8 pts, 9 reb, 1 blk
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Ashtyn Callaway: 2 pts, 5 reb
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Autumn Gunter: 2 pts, 3 reb
Postgame
Thursday's performance highlighted Mission's growth, consistency, and depth as the Lady Patriots followed an emotional overtime victory with a composed and dominant conference effort. Mission controlled tempo, executed offensively, defended with discipline, and rebounded at a high level while receiving meaningful contributions across the lineup.
The win strengthens Mission's position in the conference standings and reinforces confidence as the Lady Patriots move deeper into conference play.
Next Up
Mission University travels to Hannibal-LaGrange University on Saturday, January 10 at 1:00 PM.
