MINNEAPOLIS, MN --  In a challenging encounter at Williams Arena, Minneapolis, MN, the Prairie View A&M Panthers fell to the Minnesota Gophers on Friday, December 20, 2024, with a final score of 57-96 in their regular season matchup. The Panthers, representing Prairie View A&M's Women's Basketball side, could not bridge the gap after trailing 25-49 at halftime.

Nyam Thornton scored for Prairie View A&M with 12 points, accompanied by 5 rebounds and a steal. Ash'a Thompson and Amauri Williams were notable contributors, scoring 11 and nine points respectively, with Thompson adding 6 rebounds and a steal to her tally. Despite the loss, the team showed resilience and strategic gameplay but struggled against the solid defense and aggressive offense of the Gophers. Other key players included Kaci Chairs and Crystal Schultz, who made successful rebounding efforts.

Looking ahead, the Panthers are set to face Wiley University on December 29, 2024, at the William J. Nicks Building in Prairie View, Texas. The team is focused on rebounding from this loss, sitting currently at a 2-6 record as they progress further in the season. This upcoming game presents a crucial opportunity for the Panthers to improve their standing and showcase their potential in the SWAC.

How It Happened

After falling behind 13-6, Prairie View A&M went on a 7-0 run with 4:42 left in the first quarter, culminating in a bucket from Ash'A Thompson, to tie the game at 13. Minnesota then pulled ahead, sending the Panthers into the second quarter down 21-15.

The Panthers lost ground in the second quarter and faced a 49-25 halftime deficit.

Minnesota continued to increase its lead after halftime, building a 57-30 advantage before Prairie View A&M went on a 7-0 run, punctuated by a three from Nia Jordan, to trim its deficit to 57-37 with 5:49 to go in the third. Minnesota countered and stretched its lead to 72-45 heading into the fourth. Prairie View A&M knocked down four three-pointers in the quarter to score 12 of its 20 total points.

Prairie View A&M could not pull any closer in the fourth, losing by a final of 96-57.

Game Notes

» Thornton led the Panthers with 12 points.
» Prairie View A&M got a team-high seven rebounds from Chairs.