ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — West Texas A&M defeated the Northwest Missouri State women's basketball team at the D2CCA Tip-Off Classic at St. Joseph's Civic Arena. 

Northwest dropped to 0-2, while the Lady Buffs improved to 1-1.

The first quarter commenced with Northwest Missouri State establishing an early advantage, driven by Kenzie Melcher's layup just 16 seconds into play. Ella Moody added consistent scoring, including a three-point play that helped maintain their momentum. Despite the Buffs' efforts to close the gap, Melcher's three-pointer with 1:22 remaining reinforced Northwest Missouri State's lead. At the end of the first quarter, Northwest Missouri State led the Buffs, 21-17.

In the second quarter, Northwest Missouri State managed to briefly seize momentum with Kirsten Hauck converting two free throws at the 4:16 mark, giving them a 24-21 lead. However, the Buffs quickly responded with a scoring run, including a key 3-pointer by Chloe Callahan, which put them ahead 26-24. Despite a late jumper by Ella Moody, Northwest Missouri State concluded the quarter trailing 31-28.

Northwest Missouri State faced challenges in the third quarter, with the Buffs extending their lead early on. Despite a tough start, Northwest Missouri State managed to cut into the deficit with key 3-pointers from Bailey Birmingham at 3:41 and Avery Yosten at 2:23, narrowing the gap to five points. However, the Buffs capitalized on free throw opportunities, extending their lead further.

In the closing minutes, Boston Wand's layup at 1:04 brought Northwest Missouri State closer, but free throws from the Buffs solidified their advantage. The quarter ended with the Buffs leading 48-38, marking the conclusion of the game.

Northwest Missouri State started the fourth quarter with a scoring effort led by Andrea Lopreato, who hit a jumper at 8:09, assisted by Bailey Birmingham, bringing the score to 40-52. Despite efforts from Avery Yosten and Brooklyn Wand, who contributed with a layup and a jumper respectively, Northwest Missouri State struggled to close the gap, committing several turnovers that the Buffs capitalized on.

The quarter concluded with Northwest Missouri State trailing 51-67 after a last-second layup by Bailey Birmingham. The Buffs maintained their lead throughout the quarter, securing the victory with a final score of 67-51.

Andrea Lopreato led the scoring effort with 10 points, converting five field goals on 12 attempts. Melcher matched Lopreato's point total, scoring 10 while contributing with two 3-pointers. Moody added nine points, making all three of her free throws and collecting four rebounds. Yosten finished with six points and two steals, bolstering the team's defensive efforts.