DENTON, Texas — The Wildcats kicked off the UNT Fall Fest with a win over defending Big Sky champions, Montana State. The Wildcats held as much as a seven-point lead in the first quarter, but the Bobcats stormed back to take the lead early in the second quarter. ACU held the slight four-point lead at halftime, and it remained close down the stretch. MSU took a one-point lead, 61-60, late but
Madi Miller made a huge three on the next possession and the Wildcats held on for a 66-61 win.
Key Plays
- The Wildcats hit two early threes over three possessions to push their first quarter lead up to five points, 14-9.
- After the Bobcats took their first lead of the game, 22-21, Bella Earle hit a three to regain the lead for ACU with seven minutes to play in the second quarter.
- Down two with two and a half minutes to play in the first half the Wildcats went on an 8-0 run, with threes from Claire Graham and Madi Miller, to take a six-point lead.
- Once again, threes from Miller and Graham led the Wildcats to close out the third quarter with an 8-2 run to put ACU in the lead headed to the final quarter.
- The Bobcats hit two free throws with 39 seconds to play, giving them the one-point lead. On the ensuing possession, Miller hit her fourth three of the night to take the lead and the Wildcats made two huge defensive stops to seal the game.
Turning Point
After relinquishing the lead late, the Miller three followed by solid defense were the key to seal the game for ACU.
Stat Pack
- Madi Miller went off for her best outing of the year, scoring 20 points and grabbing 12 rebounds.
- Bella Earle has a solid all-around performance with 10 points, eight rebounds, and four assists.
- Maleeah Langstaff also had a double-double for the Wildcats with 13 points and a season-high 10 rebounds.
- The team shot a season-best 31.3 percent from distance, their first outing better than 30 percent on the year.
- The Wildcats outrebounded the Bobcats 44-34.
Up Next
ACU will have another game as a part of the UNT Fall Feast tournament on Sunday when they face off against Louisiana at 12 p.m.
