CANYON, Texas – The #13 Lady Buffs of West Texas A&M used a big second half to run their win streak to five games on Friday afternoon as they picked up a 80-56 regional victory over the Adams State Grizzlies during the WT Thanksgiving Classic at the First United Bank Center in Canyon.
 
WT started the first quarter with a strong offensive presence, quickly taking a 6–0 lead with contributions from Kyla Kane and Randi Harding in the paint. The team maintained momentum by capitalizing on second-chance opportunities, highlighted by Karley Motschenbacher's free throws and a 3-pointer from Harding. Despite Adams State responding with a series of 3-pointers, including two from Kiiyani Anitielu, the Lady Buffs held the lead, aided by Claire Graham and Taytum Bell's scoring efforts.
 
As the quarter progressed, the Lady Buffs continued to control the rebounds, securing 13 in total and limiting Adams State's second-chance points. Kenadee Winfrey added crucial points from the free-throw line late in the quarter, helping to maintain the lead. The quarter concluded with West Tex. A&M ahead 23–19, setting a solid foundation for the remainder of the game.
 
West Texas A&M built momentum in the second quarter with a strong presence in the paint, scoring 10 points from inside. Winfrey's defensive rebound initiated a scoring run that included a layup by Graham, extending the lead to 25-21. Taylor Haggan contributed with a layup and an additional free throw, pushing the score to 28-24.
 
Midway through, Kane's jumper and Harding's layup increased the lead to 34-29. A fastbreak layup by Motschenbacher, following a steal by Bell, further extended the advantage to 36-29. However, Adams State responded with key free throws and a jumper to narrow the gap. The quarter concluded with West Texas A&M narrowly leading 37-36, as the visitors managed to cut into the deficit with effective free-throw shooting.
 
West Tex. A&M began the third quarter with a momentum shift as Motschenbacher's steal led to a fast-break 3-pointer by Kane, assisted by Graham, at 9:38. This play set the tone for the Lady Buffs, who capitalized on turnovers and maintained pressure on Adams State throughout the quarter.
 
The home team extended their lead by executing efficiently in the paint, highlighted by Haggan's layup at 5:51. The Lady Buffs' defense forced multiple turnovers while committing none themselves, allowing them to control the flow of the quarter. In the closing moments, a pair of free throws by Motschenbacher and a jumper from Kane secured a solid finish, allowing West Tex. A&M to lead 58-51 at the end of the third quarter.
 
West Texas A&M began the fourth quarter with a quick scoring burst, highlighted by Winfrey's three-pointer assisted by Harding. This was followed by Henley West's layup, extending the lead as the team capitalized on strong offensive rebounds and efficient shooting.
 
Kane continued to impact the game with a jumper and two successful free throws, increasing the advantage. West Texas A&M maintained their momentum as Kane added a 3-pointer, pushing the score further and solidifying their control over the quarter.
 
The team concluded the quarter with continued defensive rebounds and scoring efforts, including a layup by West and a jumper from Hollie Stalder. The Lady Buffs closed the game decisively, securing a 22-13 advantage in the fourth quarter to finish with an 80-64 victory.
 
Kane scored 24 points, including three 3-pointers, and added five rebounds. Motschenbacher recorded 11 rebounds, made six free throws, and contributed three steals. Winfrey added 12 points and collected five rebounds. Harding posted seven points and one assist in her starting role.
 
The Lady Buffs conclude the weekend tomorrow afternoon as they host the Cowgirls of New Mexico Highlands with tipoff set for 3:00 p.m.