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ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - The Griffons start the first of three straight home games on Thursday night and look to overcome a three game skid against Emporia State.

THE GRIFFONS
Missouri Western is coming off a tough 86-81 loss to Nebraska-Kearney on Monday night. LaQuinta Jefferson scored a school-record 40 points on the night but couldn't overcome the hot shooting of the Lopers.

The Griffons continue to score the basketball at a high rate averaging 74.3 points per game on 45% shooting from the field. On the glass, they have been outrebounding their opponents by a margin of +6.9 and grab 39.6 rebounds per game. MWSU is currently 4-1 on the season when the team has less than 15 turnovers.

Jefferson has returned from injury in a big way, averaging 32.5 points per game over her last two games for the Griffons. The Griffons rely on a trio of individuals on the boards, led by Mhykeah Baez (5.8), Tiara Hall (5.5) and Miliakere Koyamainavure (4.9). Chelsea Dewey remains a staple for the Griffons, leading the team in multiple categories, which includes minutes per game, steals, and assist.

EMPORIA STATE HORNETS 
The No.1 ranked team comes into the MWSU Fieldhouse without a blemish on their record at 12-0. On Monday night, they were able to handle Lindenwood winning by a score of 97-52. 

Emporia State averages 81.7 points per game and allow a league-low 51.8 points per game so far this season. The Hornets also lead the MIAA in rebounding at 47.8 rebounds per game and allow opponents just 29.3 per. Emporia State tops the conference in shooting percentage as well at 47%.

ESU has been led by six different players in scoring this season with Kelly Moten leading the team, averaging 14.8 points per game. Three others average over nine points to help balance the scoring. Amber Vandiver leads the team in rebounding, averaging 8.1 per game. 

LAST YEAR'S MEETING
MWSU 52, ESU 69 at Emporia, Kanas on 01/08/2014
Lanicia Lawrence finished with seven points while Tiara Hall had six points and four rebounds. Lockett finished with seven rebounds for the Griffons. The Lady Hornets made 16-of-22 free throws and outrebounded the Griffons 39-33. ESU had three players score in double figures on the night.

COMING UP
The Griffons stay in the fieldhouse for the next eight days, with No. 5 
Pittsburg State making the trip to St. Joseph on Saturday and Central Missouri visiting the fieldhouse next Wednesday. That game on the 14th against the Jennies will be sponsored by Commerce Bank and include the annual cash grab. Four lucky fans will enter the cash machine to grab as many bills as they can before time runs out.