By Connor Ulrey//Contributing Writer
Despite a solid game by Middle Tennessee, a late comeback by the South Dakota State Jackrabbits (7-3) spelled doom for the Blue Raider women as they fell 65-61 (4-4).
MT outperformed the Jackrabbits for much of Monday’s contest, but fell asleep at the wheel late in the second half, and couldn’t muster enough to earn themselves the victory.
The Blue Raiders led for 32 minutes of the game, but late-game fouling was the team’s downfall, as Caroline Warden, Cheyenne Parker and Shanice Cason all fouled out. Middle Tennessee amassed 24 team fouls, while South Dakota State had only 15.
Olivia Jones continued her dominant sophomore campaign with 22 points, to go with five rebounds and six steals.
Senior forward Cheyenne Parker continued to show why she’s been a pivotal part of the Lady Raider team. Parker earned her third double-double of the season finishing with 15 points and 12 rebounds. She also added a career-high seven blocks.
The Jackrabbits struggled offensively for most of the contest, connecting on only five shots in the first half. Guard Megan Waytashek led the way for South Dakota State with a game-high 24 and five rebounds.
South Dakota State tied the game at 48 with 6:46 left in the game, and a Macy Miller three-pointer with 2:40 left sealed the game Jackrabbits.
The Jackrabbits capitalized on sloppy defense, making 14 of 17 shots at the free throw line in the second half, and 25 of 29 for the game.
The Blue Raiders will look to rebound from the loss as they return home to face Central Florida on Saturday. Tipoff is at 2 PM.
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