Missouri women’s basketball secured its first win of 2024, marking the first victory in SEC play, with a remarkable fourth-quarter comeback, defeating Vanderbilt 65-63 in Nashville, Tennessee.
Coach Robin Pingeton expressed pride in her team’s resiliency, especially crediting the seniors for their composure in challenging moments. The Tigers, trailing 52-44 entering the fourth quarter, staged an impressive 11-1 scoring run, taking a 55-53 lead with 5:32 remaining.
In the final moments, Iyana Moore’s triple cut the deficit to 65-60, but a turnover by Abby Feit gave Vanderbilt a chance. However, Moore’s drive ended in a crucial turnover, allowing Missouri to regain possession with just 9.1 seconds left. Despite a steal by Khamil Pierre, Vanderbilt couldn’t convert, and the Tigers secured the win.
Pingeton emphasized the team’s unwavering belief and confidence, noting the significance of a road win against a Top 25 team like Vanderbilt.
Hayley Frank played a pivotal role, scoring 17 points with five three-pointers, eight rebounds, three steals, and one assist. Ashton Judd contributed 19 points, with 15 coming in the third and fourth quarters, along with seven rebounds and a steal.
The matchup between guards Jordyn Cambridge and Mama Dembele showcased the skills of two of the SEC’s best. Dembele, returning to the starting lineup after missing the previous game, displayed toughness with six points, nine assists, five rebounds, and six steals. Cambridge was held below her average with 12 points on 3-of-9 shooting.
The victory extended Missouri’s historical record against Vanderbilt to 10-3 and handed the Commodores their first loss since Nov. 29. The Tigers look ahead to a home game against Georgia at Mizzou Arena on Thursday at 7 p.m.
The Missouri men’s basketball team suffered a 71-69 overtime loss to South Carolina, bringing their season record to 8-8 and 0-3 in conference play. Despite a season-high 23 points from graduate Noah Carter, the Tigers couldn’t secure the victory. Graduate Sean East II contributed 15 points and a career-best eight rebounds.
Mizzou faced an early 7-0 deficit but managed to stay competitive throughout the game. The score was 33-32 in favor of the Tigers at halftime. Despite holding a 62-59 lead with under 30 seconds left in regulation, a crucial 3-pointer by Ta’Lon Cooper forced the game into overtime.
In the extra period, South Carolina secured a 71-69 victory with a contested jumper by Jacobi Wright. Missouri will look to bounce back on the road against Alabama on Tuesday night.
