JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Truman State women's basketball team overcame a halftime deficit to defeat Lincoln 69-56 Thursday evening at Jason Gym. The Bulldogs improve to 6-6 overall and 3-1 in GLVC play, while the Blue Tigers fall to 4-8 (2-3 GLVC).
Truman State opened the game with defensive intensity, building a 12-9 lead after the first quarter. Mariann Blass provided the early offensive spark with six points, including two three-pointers, as the Bulldogs established an early advantage despite shooting just 20% from the field.
The second quarter proved challenging for Truman as Lincoln's offense caught fire. The Blue Tigers outscored the Bulldogs 22-10 in the period, with Laini Joseph leading the charge. Lincoln shot 44.4% from the field and took advantage of Truman's offensive struggles to build a 31-22 halftime advantage.
The Bulldogs emerged from halftime with renewed energy and a commitment to attacking the basket. Avery Rausch became the catalyst for Truman's turnaround, scoring 11 third-quarter points while converting 7-of-7 from the free-throw line. The Bulldogs outscored Lincoln 26-16 in the quarter, with Emajin McCallop adding six points and dominating the glass. Truman's relentless attack at the rim resulted in 13 free-throw attempts in the period—all made—as the Bulldogs erased the deficit and took a 48-47 lead into the final quarter.
The fourth quarter belonged to Truman State as the Bulldogs seized control. Lexie White provided an offensive explosion, scoring seven points in the period including back-to-back baskets that extended Truman's lead to 57-50. Katelyn Odem contributed crucial baskets, including a driving layup to open the quarter and key assists throughout. Rausch continued her excellence at the free-throw line, converting four more attempts to finish the game 11-of-12 from the stripe.
The Bulldogs' defense locked down in the final quarter, holding Lincoln to just 3-of-11 shooting from the field. Truman's ability to get to the free-throw line proved decisive, as the Bulldogs made 24-of-28 attempts for the game (85.7%). Lincoln managed just nine fourth-quarter points as Truman pulled away for the 13-point victory, dominating the second half 47-25.
Team Statistics Comparison
| Category |
Truman State |
Lincoln |
| Field Goals |
20-50 (40.0%) |
21-60 (35.0%) |
| 3-Point FG |
5-18 (27.8%) |
7-32 (21.9%) |
| Free Throws |
24-28 (85.7%) |
7-8 (87.5%) |
| Rebounds |
40 |
34 |
| Assists |
14 |
10 |
| Turnovers |
14 |
16 |
| Steals |
7 |
7 |
| Blocks |
0 |
1 |
| Points in Paint |
30 |
20 |
| Fast Break Points |
7 |
0 |
| Bench Points |
26 |
17 |
| Points Off Turnovers |
16 |
14 |
Truman State Statistical Leaders
Scoring:
Rebounds:
Assists:
Steals:
The comeback victory showcased Truman State's resilience and ability to adjust at halftime. The Bulldogs dominated the second half 47-25, shooting 52.0% from the field while holding Lincoln to just 31.0%. Rausch's 19 points led a balanced offensive attack that saw four Bulldogs reach double figures. The free-throw line proved to be the difference, as Truman attempted 20 more free throws than Lincoln and capitalized on the advantage.
Up Next:
The Bulldogs will look to snap a three game losing streak against the Missouri S&T Miners on Sunday at 1:00 PM in Rolla.
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