Despite first-year guard Jade Hill’s 22 points, St. Thomas was narrowly defeated by UM Kansas City 62-57 Thursday at Schoenecker Arena.
The Tommies (6-14, 3-7 Summit League) stayed even with the Roos (17-5, 7-4) in the first three quarters, with both teams going nearly shot for shot with each other.
“Jade played with pace,” coach Ruth Sinn said. “She set up the offense. She did a really nice job pushing the ball up the court.”
Senior guard Naomi Alnatas’ 30 points and seven rebounds played a major part in the Roos’ win, as she led in both stats.
A defensive switch by the Roos early in the third quarter allowed St. Thomas to capitalize on open shooting opportunities but later allowed the Roos to slow down the Tommies’ offense.
“We had some bad turnovers, me included,” Hill said. “Those possessions give them the momentum and that really got them going.”
Both teams battled until the end, with just a few points separating the two for a majority of the fourth quarter. However, the Tommies’ offense stalled in the closing quarter, allowing the Roos to gain a small lead.
“Six points in one quarter isn’t going to give you a ball game. Nineteen turnovers isn’t going to give you a ball game,” Sinn said.
Eventually, the Roos outlasted the Tommies, wrapping up the game with two made free throws by Alnatas.
“I’m proud of our team. I’m proud of our fight,” Sinn said. “Now, we just need to take it to the next level.”
Despite the loss, Hill focused on learning from the tough competition.
“We’re getting better and progressing each game,” Hill said. “We’re in every game we play. We (will) attack the next game with all we have.”
The Tommies return to Schoenecker Arena at 1 p.m. Saturday to take on Oral Roberts University.
Derek Badger can be reached at badg7629@stthomas.edu.