March 23, 2024
Eagles to Play in NJCAA DII National Championship Game
Joplin, MO- Kirkwood advanced to the national title game with a convincing 66-43 victory over 6th seed Mesa Friday night at the NJCAA DII National Tournament in Joplin, MO.
The Eagles' offense was the story of their first two games of the tournament, whereas their semifinal victory was all about their defense.
Kirkwood (34-2) managed to hold Mesa to a season-low 30.2% (16-53) from the floor for the game.
The Eagles used a 15-2 run in the first quarter to turn a three-point deficit into a 10-point lead.
Kirkwood would lead 19-13 after a quarter of play.
The Eagle's defense shined in the second quarter, as they outscored Mesa 14-7 in the quarter to take a 33-20 lead into the locker room at halftime.
Kirkwood extended their lead in the third quarter & would take their largest lead at 53-28 late in the third quarter.
Mesa was able to get within 55-41 with 7:01 remaining in the game, but Kirkwood managed to hold the Thunderbirds scoreless for the next 3:24 of play & extended their lead back to 20 points.
Freshman Jenns Twedt led the Eagles in scoring with a game-high 19 points & also dished out 4 assists.
Freshman Lizzy Puot also finished in double figures with 11 points & 7 rebounds.
Sophomore Demetria Prewitt finished with 10 points.
Sophomore Kaylee Corbin added 8 points & a game-high 10 rebounds.
Just as the Eagles had done in the first two games, they dominated the boards (43-29) and outscored their opponent in the paint (26-22).
Kirkwood will now take on #1 seed Johnson Couty in the national title game at 7:00 pm Saturday night.
