MARYVILLE, Mo. — The Northwest Missouri State University women's basketball team knocked off former MIAA foe the Lincoln Blue Tigers Saturday at Bearcat Arena, 61-50.

The Bearcats capitalized on second-chance opportunities, scoring 18 points from 18 offensive rebounds. The Bearcats won their second straight game to move to 3-3 on the year. Lincoln was coached by former Bearcat Addae Houston.

Northwest Missouri State started the first quarter with a competitive edge, responding to Lincoln's early lead by tightening the scoreline. Bailey Birmingham's critical 3-pointer with one second left secured a 17-15 advantage for the Bearcats at the end of the quarter. Despite Lincoln's multiple lead changes, the Bearcats maintained composure and capitalized on late opportunities to pull ahead.

The Bearcats extended their advantage in the second quarter, sparked by an early 3-pointer from Birmingham at 9:29, assisted by Andrea Lopreato. The team capitalized on opportunities in the paint, scoring eight points and adding two blocks, including a notable rejection by Boston Wand at 7:17. Despite Lincoln's attempts to close the gap, the Bearcats maintained control, with Kenzie Melcher's 3-pointer at 2:28 further solidifying their lead. The quarter concluded with the Bearcats ahead 35–25.

Northwest Missouri State maintained their lead through the third quarter, though Lincoln reduced the deficit. A critical moment came when Wand scored a jumper with 6:34 remaining, extending the margin to eight points. Despite Lincoln's efforts, including a late surge that brought them within two points, Brooklyn Stanley's 3-pointer with 55 seconds left helped secure the quarter. The quarter ended with the Bearcats leading 44–39.

Northwest seized control in the fourth quarter with a pivotal stretch, starting with Wand's tip-in at 7:10 that put them ahead 46–45. Ella Moody extended the lead with a layup and free throw at 6:03, pushing the score to 51–45. Avery Yosten's 3-pointer at 5:34 further widened the gap to 54–45. Despite Lincoln's attempts to close the deficit, Northwest Mo. St. maintained their lead, securing a 61–50 victory with two late free throws by Birmingham. The game ended with the Bearcats outscoring Lincoln 17–11 in the final quarter.

Birmingham scored 16 points, converting 4 of 6 from beyond the arc. Wand collected 10 rebounds, including seven on the offensive glass, and added nine points. Sadie Maas posted three blocks and recorded two steals. Yosten finished with six points and tallied two steals.

In their next game, the Bearcats will host William Jewell on Tuesday, Nov. 25, at 6 p.m. in Bearcat Arena.