ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – Griffon Women's Basketball (5-11, 1-6 MIAA) mounted an impressive comeback effort, but No. 6 Fort Hays State (15-1, 6-1 MIAA) prevailed 66-60 on Thursday night at the MWSU Fieldhouse in St. Joseph.

Hays controlled things early, getting off to a 23-8 start and leading 40-23 at halftime.

MoWest found a spark quickly in the second half, scoring 24 third quarter points and trailing only 52-47 entering the fourth quarter.

The Griffs came close, getting to within 61-60 with 1:04 to go. Hays, however, hit five of their last six free throws to protect their lead. MoWest had three possessions in the last 31 seconds, but was unable to score on any of them, committing turnovers on two of those last three chances.

Ana Oliveira Dias led the effort with 15 points and nine rebounds. Mia Morel had 12 points, seven rebounds, four assists and two steals. Nakiya Harris, who fouled out late, had 11 points and nine boards.

LaNicia Parker came off the bench for nine points and six boards. MoWest shot 24-of-78 (30.8%) on the day, including 6-of-27 (22.2%) from three. The Griffs were also 6-of-8 at the foul line.

Hays shot 25-of-51 (49%) on the day, as the Tigers were fueled by a 33-point performance from junior Talexa Weeter.

MoWest is back home Saturday to complete a four-game home stand, facing Nebraska-Kearney (10-8, 3-4 MIAA). Tip-off is set for 1:30 p.m. The game will be broadcast on the Griffon Sports Network (Varsity Network App, GoGriffons.com/listen) and available to stream on the MIAA Network.