Eastern New Mexico University's women's basketball team lost to third-ranked Fort Hays State 74-66 on Friday afternoon at the Newman Classic, held in Fugate Gymnasium in Wichita, Kansas.
The Greyhounds (1-3) stayed competitive throughout the game against the undefeated Tigers (3-0). After trailing by six points at the end of the first quarter and by two at halftime, ENMU continued to fight but found themselves down by five entering the fourth quarter.
In the final period, Eastern New Mexico made a push to close the gap. Hannah Jensen hit a three-pointer with just over three minutes left, bringing ENMU within four points. Shortly after, Nataya Lockett's steal helped tie the game late in regulation. Despite this effort, Fort Hays State regained control and finished with an eight-point victory.
Aaliyah Smith led ENMU with a career-high scoring performance and added a key defensive play during a crucial stretch of the game. Tatiana Platonova contributed 14 points, four rebounds, and two steals for Eastern New Mexico. Chloe Dallas achieved a double-double—ten points and ten rebounds—before halftime but did not return for the second half.
For Fort Hays State, Talexa Weeter scored 25 points on efficient shooting and was strong from the free-throw line. Olivia Mortensen added 17 points and six rebounds while Brooke Loewe nearly recorded a triple-double with 15 points, eight rebounds, and nine assists.
Eastern New Mexico will play again tomorrow against tournament host Newman University at noon Mountain Time.
