Springfield Standard

Missouri State University's women's basketball team secured a 75-57 win over Northeastern State in an exhibition game at Great Southern Bank Arena on Tuesday night, marking the end of their preseason.

The Lady Bears started strong with Faith Lee scoring the opening points. Senior Cady Pauley contributed back-to-back baskets during a 7-0 run in the first quarter. Despite building a nine-point lead, Missouri State saw Northeastern State close the gap to two points by the end of the period.

Lee continued her efforts in the second quarter, hitting both a jumper and a three-pointer. JaNyla Bush made her debut for Missouri State, adding another three-pointer after entering the game. The Lady Bears closed out the half on a 12-1 run, led by Pauley and freshman Maiesha Washington, giving them a 40-23 advantage at halftime.

Pauley and Lee led Missouri State's scoring in the first half with 12 and nine points respectively.

Sophomore Lainie Douglas opened the third quarter with nine consecutive points for Missouri State. Northeastern State responded with four three-pointers to narrow the deficit to 14 points midway through the third period. Bush answered with another three-pointer for Missouri State, but Northeastern State cut the lead to ten points by quarter’s end.

Missouri State started the fourth quarter with a 7-0 run to extend their lead to 17 points. The Lady Bears' defense limited Northeastern State’s opportunities for the rest of the game, resulting in an 18-point victory.

Lee finished as Missouri State's top scorer with 17 points, followed by Douglas with 15 and Pauley with 12. Transfer Maycee James led all players with eight rebounds. The Lady Bears forced 23 turnovers and had a plus-12 rebounding margin.

Missouri State will begin its regular season on Monday, Nov. 3 against Saint Louis at Great Southern Bank Arena. Tipoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m., and coverage will be available on ESPN+.