ST. LOUIS – Kennedy Taylor of Missouri State women’s basketball was named the Missouri Valley Conference Newcomer of the Week following her performance against UT Martin on Saturday, the league announced today.
Taylor set her career high with 23 points and three steals against the Skyhawks, while going 8-for-13 (.615) from the field and 7-for-10 (.700) from the free throw line in just under 22 minutes on the floor. She also pulled down seven rebounds, including a game-high tying four offensive boards.
The sophomore and first-year Lady Bear was vital in a crucial second half that saw MSU extend and maintain its lead over UTM for its second consecutive victory, as she scored 19 of her 23 points after halftime (6-for-11 FG, 7-for-10 FT in second half). Taylor became MSU’s first 20-point scorer on the season and was responsible for all but four of Missouri State’s 27 points off the bench.
She ranks second in the MVC in offensive rebounds per game (3.5) and set career highs in points, steals, field goals, field goal attempts, free throws and free throw attempts versus the Skyhawks.
The honor marks the first of Taylor’s career.
Missouri State will close out non-conference play as it welcomes Little Rock to Great Southern Bank Arena on Wednesday, Dec. 21. Tipoff against the Trojans is set for 1 p.m.
