The Griffons survived 66.7% first half shooting by the Hornets, and erased a 15-point 2nd half deficit to tie the game at 57-57 on Koch’s 3-pointer with 4:06 remaining, but Emporia answered with a Merissa Quick lay-up at the 3:15 mark to reclaim a lead they wouldn’t relinquish.

Heather Robben had 27 points for Emporia.  Koch’s 33 came on 12-20 shooting.  She added 5 steals to go along with 4 assists and 7 turnovers.  No other Griffon player scored in double figures.  Abby Stone added 8 points, 4 blocks, 5 rebounds and 3 steals for Western.

Emporia shot 52.1% for the game.  Western shot 46%.

The loss drops the Griffons to 5-12 overall and 3-9 in MIAA play.  Emporia improves to 14-3 and 10-2 in the conference.

The Griffons were without two starters, Ashleigh Curry (team violation) and Brittany Griswold (injured foot).

Koch has now scored in double figures in 26 games dating back to last season.  She also sits at 1,577 career points.  She is now 177 away from tying Western’s all-time scoring record set by Lisa Hughes.

Western returns home Saturday to face Washburn.  Tip-time is set for 1:30 from the Fieldhouse.

— MWSU Sports Information —