Missouri Southern’s women’s basketball team was looking to continue its hot start to the season when it faced off against Central Christian (Kansas) and Northwestern Oklahoma inside the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center last week. The Lions were finishing up their fifth straight home game to open up the season.

First up was the matchup against Central Christian before the holiday break. The Lions dominated from start to finish, winning the game convincingly at 101-46.

The Lions set a new assists record against Central Christian, assisting on 33 of 39 baskets made. The Lions led by 40 at the half and started all freshmen to begin the second half.

A game against Northwestern Oklahoma would follow that weekend. The Lions only trailed for 1:34 in the game. The Lions would win the game 77-33. The Lions would hold the Rangers to a season-low 33 points. That’s the fewest allowed by the Lions since Southern held Ozark Christian (Missouri) to 28 points in a 104-28 win on Dec. 6, 2005. The 33 points are the fewest points allowed ever to a Division II opponent in the D-II era for the Lions. The Lions have also won three of their six games by 30-plus points.

As conference play has tipped off, head coach Ronda Hubbard believes the biggest area of concern is the physicality and toughness of her team against the MIAA opponents.

“We need toughness in the interior,” said Hubbard. “Our post players need to play strong, physical and aggressive in order to be successful in this league.”

“When we enter MIAA play, it becomes a completely different ballgame,” said Tami Morice. “The MIAA is faster, stronger and better. Every game presents a challenge.”

The Lions will be back in action tomorrow on the road against Washburn. First tip is set for 5 p.m.