HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Middle Tennessee (16-15, 11-7 CUSA) late rally came up just short Thursday afternoon as the Blue Raiders fell to Missouri State (20-12, 11-7 CUSA) 69–66, in the Conference USA Women's Basketball Championship quarterfinals.  

The Bears began the game with strong shooting, establishing a 20–13 lead by the end of the first quarter. Middle Tennessee responded late in the half, going on a 7–0 run to close the gap to 35–28 by halftime. 

Entering the fourth quarter trailing 55-46, the Blue Raiders mounted a comeback, scoring 20 points. In the final minute, they capped off their effort with a 5–0 run. Senior Alayna Contreras hit a pull-up jumper with 1:22 remaining to make the score 66-60. With just 45 seconds left, she added another three-pointer, bringing the score to 66-63. She then made her final three-pointer with 26.5 seconds on the clock, closing the gap to 69-66, but the Blue Raiders were unable to secure a win. 

Contreras led the Blue Raiders with a game-high 24 points, including four three-pointers and 12 points scored in the fourth quarter. Freshman Blair Baugus contributed 19 points and 11 rebounds for a double-double, while freshman Macie Phifer added eight points and seven rebounds. 

Coach's Comments:  
"Overall, I'm pretty proud of our young ladies. Get floor on the floor practice, proud this month. Just be honest. They fought hard. We had our shot. " 

By the Numbers:  
24 - Contreras recorded a game-high, including four three-pointers. 
19 - Baugus recorded a double-double 19 points with 11 rebounds.   
40 - Contreras, Baugus, and Phifer played for 40 minutes.  

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