MARYVILLE, Mo. -- Northwest Missouri State starts 7-0 for the first time since 1997-98 season with a 69-59 win over Pittsburg State. 

Northwest Missouri State (7-0 overall, 2-0 in MIAA) came out with the 69-59 win against the Pittsburg State Gorillas (6-1 overall,1-1 in MIAA). 

Both teams came in today's contest undefeated on the season, but the Bearcats prevailed in today's win. Today's game featured 18 lead changes and six ties. 

Kelsey Fields was dominant in the first half, accumulating 10 points on five-of-six shooting and pulling down five rebounds. Northwest forced six turnovers. 

Northwest trailed 28-27 at the break. 

Lindsey Kelderman came out of the half on fire as she knocked down the team's first five points. Jayna Green then gave the Bearcats a 35-34 lead halfway through the third quarter on a converted and-one opportunity. Northwest went on a crucial 6-0 run to take the 41-36 advantage. Northwest led 47-41 with a quarter to play. 

The Bearcats were unmatched in the second half as they outscored the Gorillas 42-31. Northwest forced 10 turnovers while holding the Gorillas to 38.5 percent shooting from the field. 

Kelsey Fields finished with 18 points on nine-of-12 shooting and five boards. Lindsey Kelderman tacked on 15 points, game-high four assists, and four rebounds.