WKU Women’s Basketball (19-14, 14-6 C-USA) lost to the University of Kansas Jayhawks (20-11, 9-9 Big 12) 86-72 in the first round of the Women’s National Invitation Tournament. The teams competed in the Allen Fieldhouse Arena in Lawrence, Kansas.

Leading the way for the Hilltoppers was sophomore forward Jaylin Foster with 24 points and six rebounds. Freshman guard Acacia Hayes followed with 14 points, three rebounds and three assists. 

Sophomore guard Mya Meredith also contributed with nine points, five rebounds and three assists. Additionally, sophomore guard Alexis Mead posted five points, 12 rebounds and seven assists.

From tipoff in the first quarter, the game was close as both teams were unable to draw a lead. With a 1:30 left , the Jayhawks went on a late 6-0 run to lead 20-14 going into the second quarter. 

The Lady Toppers closed the lead to go up 29-27 with 3:30 left in the second half by hitting a slur of threes and putback layups. The Jayhawks responded in the closing minutes of the second quarter to tie the game at 36-36.

In the second half, WKU was unable to find a rhythm to stay in the game. Kansas went on a big run in the third and fourth quarter, closing out the Hilltoppers in a disappointing fashion.

The Lady Toppers finished their season with a 19-14, 14-6 C-USA record, placing second in C-USA standings. This makes back-to-back seasons for WKU where they finished over 500 and top 5 in their respective conference. 

Sports reporter Chaz Mackey can be reached at [email protected] .