SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – The Drury Lady Panthers held McKendree to just 13 points in the first half while forcing 18 turnovers in the first two quarters on their way to a 64-46 win at the O'Reilly Family Event Center on Thursday.
 
Drury improved to 21-3 and 13-1 in the Great Lakes Valley Conference. McKendree dropped to 10-13 and 1-12 in the league.
 
The Lady Panthers owned a 27-13 lead at the half and built their lead to 21 midway through the third quarter.
 
Drury's defense was key as they struggled offensively themselves shooting their worst percentage of the season, 36 percent, as they went 20 for 56 from the field and 8 for 25 from three-point range.
 
Briana Jones had 23 points for Drury to lead all scorers. Heather Harman added 12 points. 
 
"McKendree is very balanced and we needed a good team defensive effort," said Lady Panthers head coach Molly Miller. "McKendree also did a good job with their defensive rotations and some open looks we normally get weren't there."
 
McKendree shot 39 percent from the floor going 17 for 43 and they made only 9 of 20 free throws. None of the Bearcats scored in double-figures.
 
Drury plays their final home of the season on Saturday. It is Homecoming and Senior Day on Saturday as the Lady Panthers take on Illinois-Springfield. Tipoff is at 1 p.m. Tickets can be ordered by calling 417-873-6389.
 
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