Missouri State Lady Bears: A Final Push Into March in the MVC

The Missouri State Lady Bears basketball team gearing up for an exciting showdown as they kick off their final home stand against Southern Illinois this Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m. With a rich history of success against SIU, boasting a 62-30 all-time record and a commanding 35-11 record in Springfield, the Lady Bears are poised to extend their winning streak, having triumphed in their last four matchups.

Fueling the Lady Bears' charge is the dynamic point guard Lacy Stokes, whose stellar performance has earned her the MVC Newcomer of the Week accolade for an impressive seventh time this season. Stokes's consistent contribution, averaging a team-leading 16.0 points/game alongside 4.0 rebounds, 3.0 steals, and 2.5 assists per game, has been instrumental in securing crucial road wins against Indiana State and Evansville.

At the heart of their dominance at home is the electric atmosphere of the Great Southern Bank Arena, where the Lady Bears boast an outstanding 11-1 record this season. With an average home attendance of 2,372 loyal fans, Missouri State thrives, averaging 71.2 points/game while stifling opponents to just 61.5 points/game. Their tenacious defense, limiting opponents to 9.9 assists/game and forcing 18.4 turnovers/game, showcases their relentless determination on the court.

Under the guidance of Coach Beth Cunningham, the Lady Bears have established themselves as a force to be reckoned with, especially when hitting key milestones. They boast an impressive 23-3 record when scoring 70 or more points and remain undefeated at 27-0 when allowing 65 points or less. Their defensive prowess is evident, ranking second in the MVC in scoring defense and leading the conference in rebounding defense.

Crucially, the Lady Bears' success hinges on their ability to dominate the fundamentals of the game. They hold an impressive 14-1 record when outrebounding opponents and remain undefeated at 8-0 when surpassing their competition in free throw conversions. Furthermore, their improved three-point shooting, currently ranking 47th nationally, adds a potent dimension to their offensive arsenal.

With three Lady Bears averaging double-figure points this season, including Stokes, Kennedy Taylor, and Indya Green, Missouri State boasts a well-rounded lineup capable of delivering on both ends of the court. Taylor, in particular, shines in conference games, ranking third in the MVC in field goal percentage, showcasing the depth and versatility of the team.

As they embark on their final home stand, the Missouri State Lady Bears basketball team is primed to continue their winning ways, fueled by determination, talent, and a steadfast commitment to excellence on the court.