In a thrilling contest on March 15, 2025, the State Fair Community College women’s basketball team continued their unbeaten streak, overcoming a determined challenge from Mineral Area College to secure a 68-62 victory in Park Hills, Missouri. The Roadrunners improved their record to **20-0** overall and **5-0** in conference play, while the Cardinals fell to **12-8** and **1-4** in the region.
The game showcased intense back-and-forth action, with Mineral Area rallying to tie the game twice. Key contributions from State Fair’s players, particularly timely three-pointers from **Ellie Buscher** and **Chloe Reed**, helped the Roadrunners maintain their lead despite a significant push from the Cardinals.
State Fair’s defense proved crucial, forcing **20 turnovers** while only committing **11** themselves. The Roadrunners initially built a **14-point lead**, but the Cardinals’ resilience was evident as they clawed back into contention.
Buscher led the scoring for State Fair with **15 points** and added **seven rebounds**. She was supported by **Sophia Edwin**, who contributed **14 points**. The importance of their scoring was highlighted when Buscher’s long-range shot and a series of steals by **Carolyn Foster** shifted the momentum back to State Fair, restoring a seven-point lead late in the game.
Mineral Area’s offensive efforts were spearheaded by **Mariah Dallas**, who scored a game-high **18 points**. Her strong performance in the paint, combined with a solid rebounding display, kept the Cardinals competitive throughout the match. Despite a late surge that tied the game at **50-50**, Mineral Area struggled with their shooting from beyond the arc, finishing just **2-of-18** from three-point range.
The final minutes saw both teams exchanging baskets, with Dallas tying the game at **58-58**. However, State Fair responded with a crucial three-pointer from Reed, which provided them with vital breathing room. The Roadrunners’ late-game execution, including free throws by Reed, sealed the outcome.
As the game drew to a close, Mineral Area’s **P.J. Reutzel** and **Presley Holweg** also made significant contributions, with Holweg finishing with **12 points**, **11 rebounds**, and **three steals**. Yet, the Cardinals experienced challenges with turnovers, including missing key opportunities in the final moments.
Looking ahead, State Fair prepares for a marquee matchup against **Three Rivers** on Tuesday, while Mineral Area will look to regroup as they face **Wabash Valley** on Wednesday. Both teams showed flashes of brilliance, promising an exciting continuation in the NJCAA Region 16 competition.
