PITTSBURG — The No. 11 ranked Pittsburg State University women’s basketball team secured a solid 68-58 victory against the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith on Saturday, January 31. Clara Swearingen was the standout performer, leading her team with 17 points. This game marked another strong performance for the Gorillas, who improved their record to 15-4 overall and 8-2 in the MIAA conference.
Pitt State led the game from start to finish, shooting an impressive 47.2% from the field. Kaycee McCumber contributed significantly with 16 points and 12 rebounds, marking her fifth double-double of the season. Marin Adams also added 13 points and helped the team maintain its lead even when UAFS made a run to close the gap.
UAFS started strong in the third quarter, inching closer with a 13-3 run that brought the score to 39-37. However, Pitt State quickly regrouped, with Swearingen and Adams scoring crucial baskets to regain control of the game.
Swearingen not only excelled in scoring but also recorded four steals, helping her team force 17 turnovers from the Lions. McCumber was particularly efficient, hitting all seven of her shots. Karolina Kariga also made contributions, scoring three points, assisting three times, and making key plays that sparked a crucial stretch in the fourth quarter.
On the opposing side, Telisha Brown and Marie Rose Priscilla Wemba each scored 16 points for UAFS, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Gorillas. This win adds momentum as Pitt State is set to play Missouri Southern State University soon. The game, initially scheduled for January 24 but postponed due to weather, will tip off at 6 p.m. on February 2.
This match highlights the Gorillas’ strong performance as they continue their season, indicating their competitive edge in the MIAA. According to recent statistics, teams that maintain a high shooting percentage often have better chances of winning games, a trend clearly evident in this match. With fan support and strong teamwork, Pittsburg State is on the rise and looking to carry this energy into their next games.
