Thundering Herd Defeats Golden Flashes, 70-62

The Kent State Golden Flashes faced a tough defeat in their final road non-conference game of the season. On Saturday afternoon, they lost to the Marshall Thundering Herd with a final score of 70-62.

Game Overview

The team from Kent State, holding a record of 4-6, was efficient with the ball, committing a season-low of 13 turnovers. In contrast, the Thundering Herd’s defense had shown dominance, averaging 24.4 forced turnovers per game throughout their first nine contests.

Shooting Performance

Despite maintaining control of the ball, the Golden Flashes struggled offensively. They managed to shoot only 35.1%, making 27 of 77 shots from the field. However, they highlighted their tenacity on the boards, achieving a season-best of 22 offensive rebounds and scoring 21 second-chance points.

Key Players

• Dionna Gray, a Huntington native, opened the game’s scoring for Kent State with a layup.
• Emory Klatt, a sophomore, contributed crucial points from the bench before halftime.
• Mya Babbitt had a standout performance, scoring 12 points.
• Janae Tyler led the game with 16 points, showcasing her scoring ability in the fourth quarter.
• Gray also registered eight points, nine assists, and eight rebounds—nearly a triple-double.

Game Flow

After a competitive first quarter, Gray helped Kent State lead 10-9. However, Marshall quickly gained momentum, scoring 13 consecutive points to establish a significant lead. Kent State trailed 31-25 at halftime but made a strong push in the third quarter.

Babbitt contributed significantly, scoring 10 consecutive points and helping Kent State to take a brief lead of 44-42. However, following a scoring drought, Marshall capitalized and regained control by leading 46-44 by the end of the third quarter.

Fourth Quarter Struggles

In the final period, Kent State faced difficulties, going over three minutes without scoring. A late three-pointer from Gray pulled them within five points, and Tyler’s putback continued the fight. Nonetheless, Kent State was unable to convert their final six shots, leading to the defeat.

Next Steps

The Golden Flashes will look to bounce back when they host Davis & Elkins at the M.A.C. Center on Monday, December 15, for Education Day, sponsored by Ohio 529. Fans and supporters are encouraged to follow Kent State Women’s Basketball for updates through social media and their official app.