MARYVILLE, Mo. — The Northwest Missouri State University women's basketball team celebrated its team senior day by extending its win streak to seven by defeating the University of Arkansas Fort-Smith Lions, 62-54.
 
Northwest improved to 17-10 overall and 10-7 in the MIAA. UAFS fell to 4-21 overall and 3-13 in league play.
 
Northwest Missouri State began the game strongly, establishing a lead with a combination of inside and outside scoring. Ella Moody, celebrated as part of the senior day festivities, contributed early with a tip-in and a jumper in the paint, while Kirsten Hauck and Bailey Birmingham both hit 3-pointers, with Brooklyn Stanley assisting on key plays. The team controlled the boards, securing 11 rebounds, which limited second chances for Arkansas-Fort Smith. The Bearcats ended the first quarter ahead, 17–9.
 
Northwest Missouri State gained momentum early in the second quarter with a 3-pointer by Kirsten Hauck at 9:22, extending its lead. Birmingham further solidified the advantage by scoring seven consecutive points, including two 3-pointers and a free throw, to push the lead to 29-16 by 7:34. Despite a resilient effort from Arkansas-Fort Smith, which narrowed the gap with key shots and managed to keep the scoring close for the remainder of the quarter, the Bearcats maintained their lead. The quarter concluded with the home team ahead 38-29.
 
Northwest Missouri State extended its lead in the third quarter with a solid defensive effort, highlighted by Stanley's steal and fast-break layup at 9:13. Sadie Maas contributed significantly with a block and defensive rebound followed by a jumper at 8:13, helping to maintain momentum. Birmingham's three-pointer at 5:09 further increased the lead. Northwest Missouri State closed the quarter ahead 51-38, setting the stage for the final quarter.
 
The Bearcats secured a decisive stretch in the fourth quarter with pivotal contributions from Stanley and Birmingham. Stanley broke a scoring drought with a jumper at 4:32, followed by a three-pointer from Birmingham at 3:45, extending the lead. Despite Ark.-Fort Smith's attempts to close the gap, including a three-pointer by Jordan Gregory at 1:36, the Bearcats maintained control. The home team concluded the quarter and the game with a solid defensive performance, culminating in a 62–54 victory.
 
Birmingham led the scoring effort with a career-high 25 points, converting six 3-pointers on eight attempts. Stanley contributed significantly with seven assists and collected nine rebounds. Maas made an impact on defense with two blocks and added nine rebounds. Moody scored six points, shooting 3-for-5 from the field.
 
The next challenge for Northwest Missouri State comes Thursday, Feb. 26, as it travels to face Newman. Tip-off is set for 5:30 p.m. CT.