Mizzou Women’s Basketball falls to Illinois in wednesday Night Contest
Despite a strong performance from several key players,the University of Missouri women’s basketball team suffered a 70-62 defeat at the hands of Illinois on Wednesday night at Mizzou Arena. The Tigers battled back from multiple deficits but ultimately couldn’t overcome a resilient Illini squad.
Tigers Face Early Challenge, Battle Back
Mizzou faced an immediate challenge, trailing by eight points midway through the opening quarter. Though, the team responded with a balanced offensive attack, narrowing the gap to just two points before a late Illinois basket extended their lead to 14-10 at the end of the first period. A key to the Tigers’ early comeback was their defensive intensity, recording three blocked shots and controlling the rebounding battle.
Illinois attempted to regain control in the second quarter, pushing their advantage back to eight. A pivotal 7-0 run, ignited by a three-pointer from senior forward Jordana Reisma, brought Mizzou within one point. The Illini countered with a run of their own, but late baskets from red-shirt senior guard Jayla Smith and junior guard Lisa Thompson kept the game within reach, leaving mizzou trailing 34-26 at halftime.
Free Throw Streak and Third-Quarter Surge
Mizzou demonstrated impressive consistency at the free-throw line, making their first eight attempts in the contest. This extended their streak to 31 consecutive successful free throws, dating back to their December 4th victory over Cal – the longest such streak for the program as the 2000-01 season.
The Tigers entered the third quarter down by 10, but a pair of crucial three-pointers from Schreacke provided a much-needed spark. Mizzou’s defense stifled the illini offense for over three minutes, holding them scoreless during a critical stretch. Later in the quarter, consecutive three-pointers from Thompson and Grace Slaughter once again narrowed the deficit to just two points.A late layup by junior guard Shannon Dowell, capitalizing on an Illinois turnover, left Mizzou trailing 50-47 heading into the final frame.
fourth-Quarter push Falls Short
The fourth quarter proved to be a back-and-forth affair. A three-point jumper from sophomore guard Chloe Sotell brought the Tigers within one point with under five minutes remaining. The game remained a one-possession contest for the next two minutes, but Illinois ultimately secured the victory by capitalizing on free throws.
slaughter Leads in Rebounding Effort
Grace Slaughter led Mizzou in both scoring and rebounding, earning her third double-double of the season with 19 points and 10 rebounds. Lisa Thompson had a season-high performance, contributing 11 points, four assists, and three rebounds. Shannon Dowell added nine points and seven rebounds to the Tigers’ effort. Mizzou ultimately outrebounded Illinois 36-34, with Sotell securing a season-high nine boards.
Looking Ahead
Mizzou will return to action on Sunday, traveling to take on Saint Louis at 2 p.m. at Chaifetz Arena. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN+.
For the latest information on Mizzou Women’s Basketball, visit MUTigers.com. Follow the Tigers on Instagram, Facebook, and X for up-to-the-minute updates.
