LUBBOCK, Texas (Interstat) — In a game defined by a stunning reversal of momentum, the Texas Tech Lady Raiders remained undefeated, overcoming a massive early deficit to defeat the Mississippi State Lady Bulldogs 69-62 in a nonconference women’s basketball game Thursday night at United Spirit Arena.

A crowd of 3,652 watched as Mississippi State erupted for 31 points in the first quarter, only to be held to a mere two points in the second period, setting the stage for a dramatic Texas Tech comeback that was sealed at the free-throw line in the final minute.

The Lady Bulldogs (4-1) appeared unstoppable out of the gate, racing to a 31-16 lead after one quarter. The offensive barrage was led by Trayanna Crisp and Destiney McPhaul, who connected on early three-pointers, while Favour Nwaedozi established a presence inside. Mississippi State shot a blistering pace, capitalizing on efficient ball movement and converting Texas Tech turnovers into easy baskets.

The complexion of the game changed entirely in the second quarter. The Lady Raiders (6-0) tightened their defense, applying relentless pressure that completely stifled the Mississippi State attack. The Lady Bulldogs went scoreless for nearly the entire period, managing only a single field goal. Their two-point quarter was a stark contrast to their opening outburst and allowed Texas Tech to methodically chip away at the lead.

Fueled by a more balanced offensive approach and a significant advantage in creating turnovers, the Lady Raiders outscored Mississippi State 15-2 in the second quarter, closing the gap to 33-31 at halftime. The defensive turnaround was keyed by guards Gemma Nunez and Bailey Maupin, who combined for several of Texas Tech’s 11 total steals in the game.

The third quarter was a defensive struggle, with both teams trading baskets. Mississippi State managed 12 points while Texas Tech added 12 of its own, leaving the Lady Bulldogs clinging to a 45-43 lead heading into the final frame.

The fourth quarter belonged to Texas Tech. The Lady Raiders’ offense finally found a consistent rhythm, exploding for 26 points. Bailey Maupin of Gruver, Texas, took over down the stretch, attacking the basket and drawing fouls. She led all scorers with 17 points. Jalynn Bristow of Holliday, Texas, provided a crucial inside presence, finishing with 18 points, while Snudda Collins of Brookhaven, Mississippi, added 17, including a critical three-pointer late in the game.

Mississippi State, despite a valiant effort to keep pace, was ultimately undone by its ball security. The Lady Bulldogs committed 21 turnovers, which Texas Tech converted into 21 points. The Lady Raiders also shared the ball effectively, dishing out 11 assists compared to just three for Mississippi State.

While the Lady Bulldogs shot a respectable 17 for 21 from the free-throw line, their offensive efficiency waned after the first quarter. They finished the game shooting 20 for 53 from the floor. McPhaul, from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, led Mississippi State with 12 points and four assists. Crisp, from Goodyear, Arizona, also scored 12, and Madison Francis of Lancaster, New York, contributed 10 points.

Texas Tech’s ability to dominate the second quarter and control the game’s tempo in the final period proved to be the difference. The victory extends the Lady Raiders’ season-opening winning streak to six games, while handing Mississippi State its first loss of the season after four consecutive wins to open the year.

Mississippi State will look to rebound on Monday, Nov. 24, against Alcorn State in Niceville, Florida. Texas Tech, meanwhile, hits the road for its next contest, facing New Mexico on Sunday, Nov. 23.