Northwest Missouri State University’s women’s basketball squad rallied to a 65‑59 win over No. 20 Pittsburg State University on Saturday, Feb. 14, at John Lance Arena. The Bearcats surged ahead with a 12‑point stretch early in the third quarter and held the lead through the final minutes, snapping Pittsburg State’s hopes of a comeback.
The victory marked the Bearcats’ fifth consecutive win and pushed their MIAA record to 18‑6 overall and 11‑4 in conference play, although the Gorillas fell to 15‑10 overall and 8‑7 in the league.
Game summary
Northwest Missouri State built a nine‑point advantage at halftime, leading 34‑25 after outscoring Pittsburg State 23‑11 in the second quarter. The early third‑quarter surge extended the lead to 12 points, giving the Bearcats breathing room to manage the game’s tempo.
Despite a late push from the Gorillas, the Bearcats’ defense held firm, limiting Pittsburg State to just 59 points. The final margin of six points reflected a disciplined effort on both ends of the floor.
Standout performances
Ja’Miya Brown led the Gorillas with a team‑high 12 points and eight rebounds, but her contribution was insufficient to overturn the deficit. For the Bearcats, Brooklyn Stanley tallied 15 points and Bailey Birmingham added 14, together accounting for 29 of the team’s points. Sadie Maas contributed a double‑double with 12 points and nine rebounds.
Harper Schreiner posted 11 points and five rebounds for Pittsburg State. The Gorillas shot a modest 34.5 % from the floor (20‑58). Marin Adams and Karolina Kiraga each added eight points, while Marie Wembadjonga supplied four points and seven rebounds.
Impact on MIAA standings
The win solidifies Northwest Missouri State’s position near the top of the Mid‑America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA) race. With an 11‑4 conference record, the Bearcats remain within striking distance of the league’s leading teams. Pittsburg State’s loss drops them to 8‑7 in conference play, widening the gap to the leaders.
| Team | Overall Record | Conference Record |
|---|---|---|
| Northwest Missouri State | 18‑6 | 11‑4 |
| Pittsburg State | 15‑10 | 8‑7 |
Looking ahead
The Gorillas, currently on a four‑game home stand, will host the University of Nebraska‑Kearney on Thursday, Feb. 19, at 5:30 p.m. CST. The matchup will be broadcast on the Gorilla Sports Network and offers Pittsburg State a chance to rebound in conference play.
Northwest Missouri State’s next scheduled contest remains pending, but the Bearcats will aim to extend their winning streak and maintain pressure on the MIAA leaderboard.
For a full recap of the game, notice the original report Bearcats knock off No. 20 Gorillas, 65‑59.
Comments and shares are welcome as the MIAA season continues to unfold.
