Nov. 12, 2010

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - Jenna Plumley's 18 points weren't nearly enough for the Lamar University women's basketball team in an 83-60 loss at Missouri State in the first round of the Preseason WNIT on Friday night.

Lamar (0-1) dominated most of the first half, leading by as many as 14 points, holding a 32-18 lead, but Missouri State (1-0) went on a 13-2 run to cut the deficit to 34-31 at intermission.

The Lady Bears started the second half right where they left off, opening the period with a 10-run to take a 41-34 edge, and never looked back. Missouri State outscored Lamar 52-26 in the second half. Lamar was just 7-of-30 (23.3 percent) from the field in the second half.

"The first half, we came out strong and played the way I know our team is capable of," Lamar coach Larry Tidwell said. "The second half, we weren't mentally tough."

Kalis Loyd had 12 points for Lamar, while Danielle Heithoff added 10 points. Trashanna Smith had eight points and a game-high 12 rebounds for the Lady Cardinals.

Casey Garrison led Missouri State with 33 points.

Lamar outrebounded Missouri State 51-43, but the Lady Cardinals hurt themselves with 26 turnovers, as compared to Missouri State's 11.

The Lady Cardinals will compete in the tournament's consolation bracket next week. Dates, opponents and location will be announced shortly.

Tidwell is confident the Lady Cardinals will bounce back.

"Make no mistake, we're a good basketball team," he said.

LAMAR