Otahkians win consolation game in Texas-Pan American tourney

EDINBURG, Texas -- Southeast Missouri State University's women's basketball team bounced back from Friday's loss to Montana to capture third place in the Texas-Pan American Tournament.

The Otahkians knocked off the host squad 72-55 Saturday to claim consolation honors in the four-team event and even their record on the season at 1-1.

Veronica Benson hit eight of 10 shots from the field -- including four of five 3-pointers -- as she led the Otahkians offensively with 21 points.

Lori Chase, who had poured in 27 points during Friday's 15-point loss to Montana, added 18 points and eight rebounds Saturday. The Otahkian junior was named to the five-player all-tournament team.

LaShelle Porter hit five of six field-goal attempts and contributed 15 points. She also recorded five steals.

Southeast, which led 38-22 at halftime, sizzled from the field by shooting 52.3 percent (23 of 44). The Otahkians made seven of their 14 3-points attempts.

Texas-Pan American (0-2), which shot 43.9 percent from the field (25 of 57), received 13 points from Kelli Kreuser and 12 from Jennifer Piwonka.

The Otahkians will play their first home game Tuesday night when Division II Oakland City comes to the Show Me Center.