Three Rivers Defeats MAC 67-45

POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. — The Mineral Area College women's basketball team struggled to keep pace with a strong fourth-quarter surge by Three Rivers College, falling 67–45 in Region 16 play Saturday afternoon.

The loss drops Mineral Area to 14–12 overall and 2–8 in Region 16 action, while Three Rivers improved to 23–5 overall and 8–3 in league play.

Three Rivers used a fast start and a big final quarter to pull away from the Cardinals, who remained within striking distance through three periods before the Raiders' late run sealed the outcome.

Three Rivers established control early, outscoring Mineral Area 19–13 in the opening quarter and extending its lead to 38–27 by halftime. The Raiders capitalized on efficient shooting and strong free-throw production, while Mineral Area struggled to find consistent offense.

Despite the deficit, the Cardinals remained competitive in the third quarter. Mineral Area matched Three Rivers' defensive intensity and held the Raiders to just eight points in the period, trimming the margin to 46–40 entering the final quarter.

Hopes of a comeback were erased in the fourth quarter as Three Rivers outscored the Cardinals 21–5.

Mariah Dallas paced the Cardinals with 14 points and five rebounds, leading Mineral Area's offensive effort. PJ Reutzel added seven points, while Casey Teague contributed six points and four assists. Presley Holweg and Kinley Norris each scored five points, and the Cardinals finished with 32 total rebounds.

MAC will now take on Crowder College on Wednesday, February 25 in hopes of climbing the Region 16 standings as March approaches.