(Poplar Bluff, MO) In a highly anticipated showdown between two Region 16 foes, the #22 Mineral Area Lady Cardinals squared off against rival #13 Three Rivers for the third time this season in a clash that would ultimately determine the top seed heading into the Region 16 tournament.
The Three Rivers Lady Raiders ended up walking away clinching the top seed with a hard-fought 69-61 win over Mineral Area College. The Lady Raiders were led by standout performances from Leah Jackson, who notched 17 points, and Kaleigh Thompson, who contributed an additional 15 points.
At times, the Lady Cardinals showed resilience, battling back to within a few points of Three Rivers. However, they could never quite gain the lead, as the Lady Raiders consistently responded with quick buckets and scoring bursts, maintaining their advantage throughout the game.
Despite the loss, Mineral Area put up a valiant effort, with Katelyn Chomko leading the charge with 15 points, supported by Remi Langmaid with 12 points and Sydney Lewis, who recorded an impressive double-double with 10 points and 13 rebounds.
With this win the Lady Raiders secured the coveted top seed for the Region 16 tournament with a victory over Mineral at the Libla Complex. Their triumph solidifies their position as the top contenders as they prepare for the upcoming tournament. With both teams likely to meet again in the championship match, the stage is set for a thrilling fourth meeting that promises to be a highlight of the tournament.
As Mineral Area College secures the 2-seed in the Region 16 tournament, the Lady Cardinals prepare for their next challenge. They are set to return to their home court, The Bob in Park Hills, on March 12th for their upcoming matchup against 3-seed State Fair with tip off at 6:00pm on KFMO.