SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (Interstat) — Lainie Douglas scored 20 points to lead Missouri State to a 60-55 victory over Sam Houston in a women’s NCAA Division I basketball game Tuesday night at JQH Arena.

The Lady Bears built a 35-24 halftime lead behind a strong start, but the Bearkats rallied with a 21-point fourth quarter to close the gap. Missouri State held on despite Sam Houston’s late push.

Douglas added four blocks for Missouri State. Maiesha Washington contributed 13 points and four assists. Fanta Kone led Sam Houston with 12 points.

Missouri State improved to 17-11 overall. Sam Houston fell to 16-10. An announced crowd of 2,259 attended the Conference USA matchup.