Lady Tigers Fall at Pratt

Fort Hays Tech Northwest Women's Basketball lost to the Pratt Community College Beavers on Wednesday, 57-65.

The game began with both teams hitting a three-pointer, but Pratt quickly gained momentum, going on a 13-2 run. Tech struggled to respond, and the first quarter ended with the Lady Tigers trailing 9-17. However, in the second quarter, Tech's offense began to find its rhythm. Al'asia Brown led the charge, scoring 9 of the team's 17 points in the period. Pratt kept pace, and the half ended with the Lady Tigers trailing by six, 26-32.

The second half was a much more competitive back-and-forth affair. Tech's offense peaked in the third quarter, with the Lady Tigers eventually tying the game at 42-42 just before the three-minute mark. Tech even managed to take a brief lead as momentum shifted in their favor. Dekeira Clay was a key contributor during this stretch, scoring 8 of her 10 points in the third quarter, helping Tech outscore Pratt 20-14.

Heading into the fourth, the game remained tight, but the tide began to turn in Pratt's favor. However, the tides would turn as Pratt was able to slow Tech's scoring while their offense continued to advance. Pratt's offense would find its stride again while Tech's started to struggle, especially without two of their starters, Dekeira Clay and Torrai Logan, who fouled out about midway through the fourth. Pratt would further pull away in the final minute, putting the score at 57-65.

Despite the loss, Tech played one of their best games of the season. They won the turnover battle and ran a more efficient offense than in previous outings. However, several key factors stood out in the final outcome. Rebounding continued to be an issue for Tech, with Pratt dominating the boards 53-31, including 19 offensive rebounds that led to numerous second-chance opportunities. Additionally, Pratt's ability to attack the paint resulted in many high-percentage shots while also frequently sending them to the free throw line. As a result, two of Tech's better scorers fouled out earlier in the fourth while the Beavers got to shoot 35 uncontested shots, compared to Tech's 10. The Lady Tigers had three players finish in double figures, with Al'asia Brown leading the way with a 21-point, 12-rebound double-double. Sarah Elfrey also showed valiant effort, accumulating 11 rebounds and 7 points. 

The Lady Tigers will now prepare to take on the Seward County Saints on Saturday. The Saints are 9-3 overall and 4-2 in conference play.