CANYON, Texas – The Lady Buffs of West Texas A&M opened their home schedule in style on Friday afternoon with a 85-70 regional victory over the #21 Colorado Mesa Mavericks at the First United Bank Center in Canyon, Texas.
 
WT began the first quarter with a quick layup by Karley Motschenbacher, setting the tone early. Kyla Kane's 3-pointer at 7:41 evened the score at 5–5, showcasing their ability to respond to Colorado Mesa's initial lead. Both teams exchanged scores, but the Buffs maintained defensive pressure with two blocks in the paint, limiting easy baskets for the opposition.
 
As the quarter progressed, the Lady Buffs capitalized on free throw opportunities, with Randi Harding and Abbi Holder both converting two apiece to push the home team ahead. Kane's jumper at 1:04 sealed a 16–15 lead for the Lady Buffs by the end of the first quarter, highlighting their resilience and ability to close out the quarter effectively.
 
WT opened the second quarter with a strong offensive performance, highlighted by Harding's jumper and Motschenbacher's 3-pointer, pushing them ahead 21-17 early in the quarter. The team capitalized on turnovers and efficient shooting from beyond the arc, with Claire Graham adding another 3-pointer to extend the lead. Defensive plays, including blocks by Kane, helped maintain momentum.
 
As the quarter continued, Taylor Haggan's free throws and subsequent jumper increased the lead to 30-23. The Lady Buffs managed to control the pace, with Kenadee Winfrey's late 3-pointer further widening the gap. The quarter ended with West Tex. A&M leading 35-27, gaining a seven-point advantage by outscoring Colorado Mesa 19-12 in the quarter.
 
The Lady Buffs maintained control throughout the third quarter, capitalizing on points in the paint with a strong inside presence. Motschenbacher was instrumental, contributing multiple layups that kept the home team ahead. Haggan's defensive rebound at 4:28 marked a critical defensive stop, helping preserve the lead.
 
Despite some turnovers, the Lady Buffs closed the quarter effectively with a 6-point run, including key free throws by Motschenbacher with 15 seconds remaining. Both teams scored 18 points in the quarter, but West Tex. A&M held a steady lead, maintaining a score of 53-45 by the end of the third quarter.
 
WT extended their advantage in the fourth quarter by capitalizing on free throw opportunities, going a perfect 19-for-19 from the line. They gained momentum early with a 3-pointer from Kane, assisted by Harding, pushing their lead to 58-47. Defensive efforts were highlighted by Haggan's block and rebound, which limited Colorado Mesa's scoring chances.
 
Kane further contributed with a layup and a three-pointer, keeping the Lady Buffs comfortably ahead. Graham's defensive play led to a steal and subsequent free throws, further extending the lead. As the quarter closed, Winfrey's late 3-pointer solidified the victory for West Tex. A&M, who maintained a strong lead to conclude the game at 85-70.
 
Kane posted 14 points, sinking three 3-pointers and blocking three shots while collecting eight rebounds. Motschenbacher led with 19 points, converting 6 of 7 free throws and grabbing seven rebounds. Harding added 12 points, making all eight of her free throws and dishing out two assists. Graham scored 12 points, making both of her 3-point attempts and recording three rebounds.
 
The Lady Buffs close out their opening weekend of home contests on Sunday afternoon as they take on the Roadrunners of MSU Denver with tipoff set for 2:00 p.m. in Canyon.