Mustang women survive season opener against Coyotes

SALINA, Kan. – The Mustangs opened their season at Kansas Wesleyan Friday night, and pulled out a 75-74 win in Salina, Kansas.

Tied at 72 with 33 seconds left, Alexis Spier scored a field goal and was fouled. Spier added a free throw to give the Mustangs a 75-72, enough to pull out a one-point victory. 

Morningside opened up the game with a 21-13 lead, but were outscored in each quarter for the remainder of the game. The Mustangs shot 50% in the first quarter, but were more efficient in the third quarter, hitting 7-of-12 shots and scoring 22 points in the quarter.

Kansas Wesleyan held a 72-69 lead with 42 seconds remaining, but Spier's three-pointer tied the game before she sealed the win nine seconds later. 

Spier led the Mustangs with a game-high 27 points on 10-of-16 shootings and 5-of-8 from three. She also had a team high nine rebounds. Chaise Pfanstiel scored 15 points on 6-of-9 shooting, adding seven assists and four rebounds. Chloe Lofstrom added nine points and five rebounds. The Mustangs shot 45.8% from the field, but hit 53.8% of their three-pointers. 

Morningside is back in action Saturday against Bethany at the Kansas Wesleyan Classic in Salina. Tip-off is scheduled for Noon.