JOPLIN, Mo. – The Missouri Western women’s basketball team had its three-game winning streak snapped in an 81-69 loss at Missouri Southern Saturday.

The Griffons led by four with four minutes to go in the first half, but a 10-0 run to close the half by the Lions put MWSU down 37-31 at the half. Missouri Southern stretched their lead to 15 on an 8-0 run lead to open the second half and never looked back.

Both teams made 21 field goals but 35 of 42 shooting from the free throw line by Missouri Southern proved to be the difference. MWSU shot 42 percent from the field, 20 percent from three-point range and 72.7 percent at the free throw line.

LaQuinta Jefferson scored 27 with Miliakere Koyamainavure adding 13 with 10 rebounds. Sarafina Handy ended the game with 10 points but was limited to 16 minutes due to foul trouble.

The Griffons return home with an 11-10 record, 6-9 in MIAA play when they host Lincoln this Wednesday.

— MWSU Sports Information —