HSSU Lady Hornets drop three straight in loss

ST. LOUIS — The Harris-Stowe State University women’s basketball team was back in action Tuesday. The home game at the Emerson Center would host the Saint Xavier Cougars in non-conference action.

The Hornets (0-2) were seeking their first win of the season. Meanwhile, the Cougars (1-0) were seeking their second win of the season.

First half notes: Hornets 24, Cougars 48

Harris-Stowe would have a tough time getting anything going. Early on, the Cougars would jump to an early 15-2 lead. Despite a rally attempt, dropping the Cougar lead to nine, Saint Xavier would have another run, leading 22-8 at the end of the first quarter.

Saint Xavier would continue pushing the tempo in the second quarter. As a result, they were able to grow their lead as high as 24 midway through the quarter. However, the Hornets would attempt to get back into the game before half-time. Moreover, the Hornets would go into the locker room at the half down by 24.

Second half notes: Hornets 57, Cougars 87

The Hornets would cut into the lead during the second half. Heading into the final quarter, the Hornets had the lead cut down to 19.

Despite the Cougars struggling to take care of the final in the final moments, the damage was already done. The Cougars would cruise their way to a 30-point win at the final buzzer.

Offensive struggles

The Hornets had issues in offense, specifically trying to score points. They went 21-for-75 (.280) from the floor, and they would end up 2-for-16 from behind the arc.

The offense would turn over the ball through costly mistakes 21 times. They would also be outrebounded, both offensive and defensive, 58-40.

Junior Maia Marshall would score a team-high 12 points. Fellow juniors Surina Finnie and Taia Smith would finish with eight points apiece.

In rebounds, junior Keuna Cummings and freshman Kyla Matthews would both finish with six rebounds.

The loss would result in the Hornets’ third straight loss. With the win, the Cougars improve to 2-0 on the year.

The Hornets will return to action Friday, hosting the Fighting Bees of St. Ambrose. While no fans will be allowed at the game, live game statistics and video will be provided.

STATS OVERVIEW