The Kent State women’s basketball team traveled to Muncie, Indiana, taking on Mid-American Conference leader Ball State.
After implementing its first change in the starting lineup due to injury, KSU could not end BSU’s 12-game winning streak, losing 57-46.
The Flashes (13-6, 7-2) came into the contest 5-5 in the last ten matchups against the Cardinals (19-2, 9-0).
“Obviously, a really tough game against a really good team on the road,” coach Todd Starkey said. “I was really proud of our team’s effort and toughness, especially in the second, third, and fourth quarters. We never gave up. We never stopped playing hard.”
Kent State’s defense limited the Ball State offense to its second-lowest-scoring game this season.
Redshirt senior guard Katie Shumate scored a game-high 22 points and had seven rebounds.
Sophomore Tatiana Thomas and freshman forward Janae Tyler had eight boards each, which helped the Flashes have a 46-38 advantage on the glass.
“I thought Janae came in for her first start against the toughest team in the league, and I thought she did a really nice job,” Starkey said. “Being down two of our top six players was difficult, but Janae and Tatiana really stepped up and played very well.”
Shumate started the game, scoring nine points in the opening quarter; however, the Flashes trailed 20-11.
Over the first seven minutes of the second quarter, Kent State’s defense limited Ball State to three points and forced five turnovers.
BSU would close the half on an 8-0 scoring run to take a 31-17 lead at halftime.
The Flashes’ defense continued its strong effort in the first eight minutes of the third quarter, going on a 13-5 scoring run to bring the score to 36-30 Ball State.
In the final two minutes of the quarter, Ball State increased its lead to 43-32.
The Flashes were held scoreless over the first five minutes to start the fourth quarter as the Cardinals opened a game-high 19-point lead.
KSU fought back to bring the deficit back to single digits; however, BSU maintained its lead as it continued its undefeated MAC start through nine games.
Starkey is hopeful that graduate students Mikala Morris and Abby Ogle can return soon.
“Mikala and Abby are coming along, so they will be back here at some point in the near future,” he said. “Their health comes first, and when they are ready to play, they will be back in the lineup.”
Ogle is one of three players to play over 200 minutes off of the bench, and Morris has started in every game this season.
Kent State shot 32% from the field and attempted 17 free throws, converting on four.
Ball State shot 37% from the field and attempted 15 free throws, converting on 10.
Up next, the Flashes host Central Michigan at home Sunday at 1 p.m.
Kent State is 6-11 against the Chippewas and has won the last three matchups.
Emily Lowen is a reporter. Contact her at [email protected].
