Box Score Dec. 30, 2011
Final Stats
RENO, Nev. -
The University of Nevada women's basketball team dropped a close Peppermill Holiday Classic consolation game to Mississippi State 67-63 Friday evening.
With the loss, Nevada drops to 3-10 on the season, while Mississippi State improves to 10-3.
Nevada looked impressive in the opening half, beginning the game with a new look as freshman Aja Johnson received her first career start. The Pack got out to a 19-11 lead at the seven minute mark before the Lady Bulldogs went on an 8-0 run to tie the game. Nevada buckled down on defense and forced Mississippi State in to some difficult shots as the Lady Bulldogs finished the half shooting 23 percent from the field. Kate Kevorken had the hot hand for Nevada finishing the half with eight points, leading the Pack to a 35-24 lead at halftime.
The Pack continued its strong play out of the break, climbing to its biggest lead of the game at 16 after the first four minutes of the second half. Freshman Emily Burns provided a spark off the bench, recording a career best 11 points with six rebounds. The Lady Bulldogs used the early exit of Kayla Williams who received her fifth personal foul at the 13 minute mark to get back in the game. The Lady Bulldogs found success from the three point line to take a 64-63 advantage with two minutes left. Nevada had a few missed attempts to pull ahead before Mississippi State closed out the game for the win.
Kate Kevorken led Nevada with a career high 27 points and seven rebounds.
Nevada will remain home to face in-state rival UNLV Monday at 6 p.m before traveling to Bakersfield Calif. to begin a four-game road trip.
