MARYVILLE, Mo. — The University of Nebraska-Kearney Lopers gained a 66-51 victory over the Northwest Missouri State University women's basketball team Thursday in Bearcat Arena.

The Lopers capitalized on 24 Bearcat miscues for a 23-9 advantage in points off turnovers. The Lopers moved to 10-8 overall and 3-4 in MIAA play. Northwest dropped to 10-7 overall and also 3-4 in league action.

Northwest Missouri State opened the first quarter with a jumper by Boston Wand at 8:29, taking an early 2–0 lead against Nebraska-Kearney. Despite a strong start, the team struggled with turnovers, committing seven in the quarter, which impacted their ability to maintain the lead. Maggie Collins contributed with a 3-pointer at 2:30, narrowing the deficit, but Nebraska-Kearney capitalized on their chances in the paint. The first quarter concluded with Northwest trailing 24–16.

The Bearcats struggled offensively in the second quarter, managing only five points. Collins scored with a layup at 2:41, assisted by Kirsten Hauck, providing a brief offensive spark for the team. Despite a late layup and free throw from Bailey Birmingham, turnovers and missed opportunities hindered their ability to close the gap. The quarter ended with the Lopers leading 34-21.

Northwest made a push early in the third with a layup by Birmingham at 9:42, but faced a series of turnovers that hampered their momentum. Despite Ella Moody's jumper at 7:28 and her subsequent free throws at 2:52, the home team struggled to close the gap, trailing 41–29 with just over four minutes remaining. Andrea Simmons managed to add a 3-pointer at 0:29, but Nebraska-Kearney maintained control, leading 50–34 at the end of the quarter. 

Northwest found a spark late in the fourth quarter, reducing the deficit with a determined effort in the paint. Sadie Maas led an offensive surge with a crucial tip-in at 6:07, while Wand and Avery Yosten capitalized on second-chance opportunities, contributing to a 17-point quarter. Despite the Lopers' consistent scoring, including a 3-pointer at 2:47, Northwest closed the game by converting some free throws. The game concluded with Northwest trailing 66-51.

Yosten led the team with 10 points, converting all her free throw attempts and adding two assists. Collins contributed nine points and collected six rebounds. Birmingham scored eight points, including one 3-pointer, and grabbed three rebounds. Maas recorded two blocks and secured five rebounds.

Looking ahead, Northwest will face Fort Hays State on Saturday, Jan. 17. The matchup is set to tip off at 1:30 p.m. at Bearcat Arena.