COLUMBIA, Mo.
— In a competitive matchup, Clara Strack was the standout performer for No. 14 Kentucky, leading her team to a 73-65 win over Missouri on Thursday night by scoring 22 points and securing 12 rebounds.

Kentucky gained momentum in the third quarter, largely due to Georgia Amoore, who contributed eight points during a significant 23-13 run, allowing the Wildcats to take a 54-47 advantage. The fourth quarter kicked off with Amoore nailing a 3-pointer, pushing Kentucky’s lead to 57-47.

Missouri’s Averi Kroenke shone in the final quarter, scoring all her seven points, while Laniah Randle added six, helping the Tigers close the gap to 67-65 with 1:41 remaining.

However, Strack quickly responded for Kentucky with a basket that extended the lead back to four points. In the closing moments, both Amoore and Dazia Lawrence sank two free throws each to seal the game for the Wildcats.

Strack had an impressive shooting night, achieving 10 of 17 from the field, while also showcasing her defensive skills with two blocks. She is just three blocks away from breaking the single-season program record of 66 set by Victoria Dunlap during the 2009-10 season.

Amoore contributed significantly as well, scoring 19 points and assisting five times. Teonni Key and Dazia Lawrence also made solid contributions, scoring 13 and 12 points, respectively.

For Missouri, Randle was a force with 21 points and 13 rebounds, while Grace Slaughter made an impact with three shots from beyond the arc to finish with 18 points. Unfortunately for the Tigers, this loss marks their fifth defeat in the last six games.

This victory positions the Wildcats as the reigning champions in their series against Missouri, winning three consecutive matchups. Looking ahead, Kentucky is set to face off against No. 7 LSU on Sunday, while Missouri will travel to Mississippi for their next game.