Central Missouri's Brooke Littrell's big fourth quarter led her team to a narrow 81-77 victory over Nebraska Kearney, avenging an earlier loss this season. Littrell, averaging 19.1 points and 8.7 rebounds per game, overcame early foul trouble to score 14 of her total 18 points in the final 10 minutes, sealing the win for UCM. UNK's head coach Drew Johnson expressed concerns about defensive lapses, with the team giving up 26 free throws and 15 second-chance points, ultimately affecting the outcome of the game.

By the Numbers
  • Littrell scored 14 points in the fourth quarter, making all five shots she attempted and going 4 of 5 at the line.
  • McCool had 19 points in the first half and 10 more in the second, achieving a career-high 29-point total.
Yes, But

UNK showed resilience, erasing a 7-point deficit with less than two minutes remaining, despite ultimately falling short in the contest.

State of Play
  • Central Missouri avenged an earlier season loss to Nebraska Kearney.
  • Central Missouri has won 9 out of 10 home games against Nebraska Kearney since 2012-13.
  • The game marked the eighth straight in the series decided by 10 points or less.
What's Next

UNK will face Lincoln on Saturday afternoon, while Central Missouri looks to build on this victory.

Bottom Line

The game showcased Central Missouri's resilience and ability to secure a crucial victory, highlighting the importance of addressing defensive lapses for future success.