LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) — Makayla Epps scored 17 points, Evelyn Akhator had 14 and No. 24 Kentucky held off a late charge by Missouri for a 64-62 win on Thursday night.

The Wildcats (10-5, 1-1 SEC) led by 16 after Akhator’s 3-point play with 8:01 to play but wouldn’t score again until her free throw at the 2:13 mark to make it 59-48. After another free throw, Missouri’s Sierra Michaelis hit two 3-pointers in an 8-0 run in 24 seconds to cut it to 60-56.

Akhator’s 3-point play at 1:07 pushed the lead back to seven before a pair of baskets after turnovers made it a 3-point game.

The Wildcats had nine turnovers but committed five in the fourth quarter when they were 3 of 12 from the field and 7 of 13 from the foul line.

Michaelis finished with 22 points and Cunningham had 16 for Missouri (11-5, 1-1).

Kentucky outscored the Tigers 26-6 in the second quarter with the help of six 3s and used a season-best 17-0 run to lead 34-21 at halftime.

— Associated Press —