SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (Interstat) — The Gonzaga women’s basketball team closed its nonconference schedule with a decisive 68-49 victory over Missouri State at JQH Arena on Friday.

The Bulldogs used a strong third quarter to pull away, outscoring the Lady Bears 23-19 after leading 29-18 at halftime. Lauren Whittaker led Gonzaga with 19 points. Allie Turner added 13 points and Zeryhia Aokuso scored 11 with six assists.

Missouri State, led by Cady Pauley’s 13 points, struggled offensively, shooting just 31.4% from the field. Gonzaga improved to 7-5, while Missouri State fell to 7-5. An announced crowd of 1,801 attended the game.