ST. LOUIS – [BOX SCORE] After two impressive wins over the course of the week, the successful run was stopped in its tracks by a team looking to make a run at the American Midwest Conference title. Harris-Stowe (Mo.) posted 43 first-half points en-route to a 77-48 loss to the Hornets at home.
Missouri Baptist (5-9, 4-6 AMC) fell behind early on Saturday against one of the hottest teams in the NAIA. The Hornets put together an 8-0 run causing Spartan Head Coach Iris Dixon to burn an early timeout. The pause in play seemed to help as the Spartans went on a short 6-2 run to cut the deficit to four.
Harris Stowe put together a strong opening 10 minutes of play in this one and shot over 50 percent with three triples to take a commanding 21-10 lead after one quarter of play.
Shots didn't fall for Missouri Baptist in the first quarter and the trend continued in the second half. As the Spartans struggled against the stingy Hornet defense, Harris Stowe continued its consistent shooting from the floor and took a 43-15 lead into halftime.
Missouri Baptist recorded 12 first-half turnovers, but stuck with the Hornets on the boards through the first 20 minutes. Shay Robinson led the squad with four rebounds and looked to transition that strong play under the hoop into points after the break.
The Hornets, however, had other ideas. Harris-Stowe put together a consistent, physical game throughout the second half as Missouri Baptist picked-up the pace, and grabbed a 77-48 win over the Spartans.
Missouri Baptist was led by Jordan Bruenton. The junior from Cincinnati finished her day with 9 points.
The Hornets, on the other hand, fed their top shooter Angela Randall all day. The senior from St. Louis posted 22 points and led all scorers on the day.
After shooting just 23 percent in the first half, the Spartans improved their percentage to 30 percent with a renewed energy in the final two quarters. It was turnovers, however, that made the difference. Harris-Stowe forced 25 Spartan turnovers and outscored Missouri Baptist 35-15 off the giveaways.
Missouri Baptist will have a few days to recuperate before hosting Williams Baptist (Ark.) on Thursday, January 12. Tip-off is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. at the Carl and Deloris Petty Sports and Recreation Complex.
