MILWAUKEE (Interstat) — In a defensive struggle that came down to the final possession, the Western Michigan Broncos edged the Milwaukee Panthers 65-64 in a non-conference women’s basketball game Thursday night at UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena.

The game was a back-and-forth affair featuring 10 lead changes and eight ties, with neither team able to build a substantial lead. Western Michigan secured the victory on a mid-range jumper from De’Ahna Richardson with six seconds remaining on the clock.

The contest was characterized by sloppy play and staunch defense, as the teams combined for 35 turnovers. Western Michigan’s ability to capitalize on second-chance opportunities proved critical, as the Broncos out-rebounded the Panthers on the offensive glass 8-3, leading to a 9-2 advantage in second-chance points.

Kailey Starks and De’Ahna Richardson led the offensive charge for Western Michigan, combining for 43 of the team’s 65 points. Starks, a 5-foot-7 guard from Evanston, Illinois, finished with 21 points and six rebounds in 34 minutes. Richardson, a 6-foot-1 forward from Bolingbrook, Illinois, matched her with 22 points and six rebounds, also playing 34 minutes. Richardson’s game-winning basket capped a strong fourth-quarter performance.

Milwaukee was led by Jorey Buwalda, who posted a near double-double with 12 points, eight rebounds and two blocks. Jada Williams added 11 points and five rebounds, while Grace Lomen came off the bench to contribute 10 points.

Despite shooting a better percentage from the field, 45.8 percent to Western Michigan’s 37.3 percent, the Panthers were hampered by turnovers and a significant disparity in free throw attempts. Western Michigan attempted 29 free throws, making 20, compared to Milwaukee’s 21 attempts, of which they made 16. The Broncos also connected on three more three-pointers than the Panthers.

The game was tight throughout all four quarters. The first quarter ended in a 17-17 tie, and Milwaukee took a narrow 35-34 lead into halftime. The Panthers maintained a one-point edge, 50-49, heading into the final period, setting the stage for the dramatic finish.

With the win, Western Michigan improved its season record to 1-2. The Broncos will travel to face Michigan State on Sunday. Milwaukee fell to 1-3 with the loss and will next play at Valparaiso on Sunday. The announced attendance was 392.