Taylor Hodges, Sports Information Director

ST. LOUIS – Despite a tough shooting performance, the top-ranked Lady Lions (14-0, 7-0 AMC) pulled out a 71-56 victory over American Midwest Conference opponent Missouri Baptist (3-10, 2-7 AMC) on Saturday.

Freed-Hardeman only knocked down 33 percent of its field goals in the contest, 22 percent from deep, but were able to grind out the win due to the performance on the glass, grabbing 19 offensive rebounds.

The defensive effort was sound as well, forcing the Lady Spartans to turn the ball over 26 times, while only giving it up 11 times themselves.

The Lady Lions took a three-point lead into halftime after shooting 27 percent from the field in the first half.

The second half was a much stronger 20 minutes for the visiting No. 1 team when they shot 43 percent from the field, led by Carrie Hatchel, who had 13 of her 20 points in the final two periods, putting her at over 1,000 points in her career.

Haylee Croom added a double-double with 10 points and 16 rebounds, nine of which came off the offensive glass.

Sandrea Sylman had 16 points in the contest and added seven assists, and Chynia Brooks finished with 15 points.

The Lady Lions will head south to Arkansas for their third straight road game on Tuesday when they face off against Williams Baptist. Tipoff is at 5:30 p.m.