Oklahoma State University Athletics
Missouri Escapes Gallagher-Iba Arena With 69-65 Win
February 16, 2006 | Cowgirl Basketball
The Cowgirls (6-17 overall, 0-12 Big 12) shot the ball well in the first half, hitting 50 percent of their shots from the floor on their way to 34 points and their highest first-half total in Big 12 play. However, the Tigers (18-6, 8-4) were able to take a one-point lead into the break after outrebounding the Cowgirls by six in the half and scoring nine second-chance points.
OSU freshman Shaunte' Smith scored 14 of her game-high 19 points in the half. The Oklahoma City native's point total matched her career high, while her 12 rebounds gave her the fourth double-double of her career.
A Whitney Pegram jumper to start the second half gave the Cowgirls their first lead since early in the game. OSU maintained the lead for most of the period, but could never build the advantage to more than five to allow Mizzou to stay within striking distance. A 3-pointer by Catherria Turner with 1:20 left put the Cowgirls up by two before the Tigers converted back-to-back buckets to regain the lead with 24 seconds remaining.
A 3-point attempt by OSU freshman Taylor Hardeman was off the mark with five seconds remaining before a pair of Mizzou free throws sealed the outcome.
Pegram finished with 16 points, while Turner added 10 for the Cowgirls.
The Tigers had four players finish in double figures led by LaToya Bond's 17 points.
The Cowgirls will return to action on Saturday when they host Texas at 2 p.m. in Stillwater.
