ST. JOSEPH, MO. - The Missouri Western women's basketball team traded blows with MIAA heavyweight Nebraska-Kearney, but faltered late in a 60-48 loss on Thursday night in the Fieldhouse. 

In a battle of top 25 teams, the 22nd-ranked Griffons (12-2, 7-2 MIAA) and #16 Lopers (13-2, 8-1 MIAA) swapped six lead changes in the first half with MWSU trailing 25-22 at the break.  But Kearney held court, leading the entire second half and holding Western's high-paced offense at bay. 

The Griffons shot just 32.1% (17-53 FG) from the field, including just 1-of-11 from behind the arc. UNK shot 42.3 percent (22-52 FG), including 6-19 from three.

"We definitely had some looks but couldn't capitlalize on our opportunities," Head Coach Candi Whitaker said. "I thought (Kearney's) experience took a toll on us late in the game."

Connie Clarke led all scorers with a game-high 23 points and 9 rebounds, scoring a game-high 23 points, but no other Griffon finished in double figures.

This marks MWSU's first home loss of the 2021-22 season.  

Next up for the Griffons, a date with Fort Hays State on Saturday. The Tigers come to St. Joseph as the #2-ranked team in NCAA Division II.  Tip-off is set for 1:30 pm.