A defensive battle brewed out west Saturday, where WKU womens basketball fell to New Mexico State 64-61.
This is WKU’s second loss in a row, dropping them to 15-12 (6-6 CUSA). A devastating blow as the season continues closer to March.
WKU shot 42.6% from the field but dropped in three-point percentage from last game to 29.4%. WKU shot 16-24 from the free throw line.
The Lady Toppers stretched their streak of games forcing 20 or more turnovers to four, forcing 23 against the Aggies. WKU cashed in 18 points off those turnovers.
Junior guard Alexis Mead tallied 17 points, four rebounds, and four assists. She was the only Hilltopper to score in double figures. Senior guard Teresa Faustino added eight points and four assists.
The first quarter saw New Mexico State jump out to an 8-2 lead before WKU responded with a 7-2 run. They would not score the rest of the quarter, however, as it went from a potential scoring affair to a defensive grudge match in a hurry. WKU only made three field goals in the first quarter, shooting 27.3% from the field.
The second quarter was just the same. Each team took turns making stands on defense. WKU shot 50% from the field. Mead had eight points going into the half while Faustino added six points and two assists. The defense forced nine turnovers and scored seven points off the turnovers.
Despite forcing seven more turnovers in the third quarter, The Lady Toppers could not capitalize, making only four field goals. They shot 33.3% from the field and did not make a three-point basket.
The Aggies pulled away in the fourth quarter as WKU’s shooting woes continued. WKU had one basket through five minutes and couldn’t make dents into their double-digit deficit. Just when all hope seemed lost, WKU made a few baskets to cut the lead to seven. They then made six of their last seven shots and shot 60% from the field to end the game, but it was no use as the Aggies were too far ahead. 10 personal fouls and nine turnovers in the fourth proved too costly.
The team will return to action after a week’s break to host rival Middle Tennessee State on Saturday, Feb. 24. The Blue Raiders won their previous matchup on Feb. 3 80-48.
The game can be watched on ESPN+ and ESPNU.
