Story by NPCC Athletic Communications
North Platte, Neb. - Aliyah Herron led the Knights with 17 points, but Lamar pulled away late to secure a 62-52 victory over North Platte on Saturday afternoon.
"It was a tale of two halves for us today, and we just ran out of time," head coach Jeff Thurman said. "I thought we really battled in the second half and made some good plays on both ends of the floor."
Jasmine Gilbert and Alexa Stevens chipped in eight points apiece, while Abigail Haas and Kyenna Jackson each grabbed six rebounds for the Knights.
North Platte held the Runnin' Lopes scoreless for the first 4:30, but Lamar's offense found its rhythm late in the opening quarter to take a 16-8 lead.
The Runnin' Lopes carried that momentum into the second quarter, outscoring the Knights 13-6 to extend their advantage to 29-14 at halftime.
Lamar pushed the lead to 20 midway through the third quarter before North Platte answered. A long-range three from Herron capped a 7-0 run, trimming the deficit to 14. The teams traded baskets the rest of the period, with Lamar holding a 49-35 edge entering the fourth.
The Knights continued to battle, pulling within eight with 37 seconds remaining on a three pointer from Haas. However, North Platte could not complete the comeback and ultimately fell to the Runnin' Lopes.
"Now we have to get back to work and prepare ourselves for next week," Thurman said.
North Platte (6-17, 3-6 Region 9 South) continues Region 9 South play at home on Wednesday against McCook Community College. Tipoff is set for 5 p.m. inside the McDonald-Belton Gymnasium.