The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville women’s basketball team shot a season-best 54 percent but could not keep up with the Ohio Valley Conference’s top offense.

Miranda Brandt / Photo by SIUE Sports Information

The University of Tennessee Martin improved to 8-0 in the OVC and 15-6 overall with a 111-72 victory over the Cougars at the Elam Center.

SIUE hit 25 of 46 from the field for 54.3 percent. Cougar freshman Micah Jones led all scorers with 20 points on 7-of-9 shooting from the field. UT Martin countered with six players scoring in double figures, led by freshman Ashia Jones’ 19 points. The Skyhawks shot 34 of 59 from the field for 57.6 percent.

“We’re shooting the ball well,” said SIUE Head Coach Paula Buscher, “but turnovers hurt.”

SIUE committed 27 turnovers Saturday as it fell to 5-15 overall and 2-6 in the OVC.

“When you play the No. 1 team in the league, you need to take care of the ball,” said Buscher. “It’s tough to be in a game and win a game with 27 turnovers.”

Sophomore CoCo Moore joined Micah Jones in double figures for the Cougars with 12 points.

“I thought Micah had a good game today,” said Buscher. “And (freshman) Miranda Brandt showed some toughness today.” Brandt finished with nine points and three rebounds.

UT Martin hit 12 3-pointers and was strong at the free throw line, hitting 31 of 38 shots. Elizabeth Masengil was a perfect 6 of 6 from the field with two 3-pointers and finished with 17 points.

SIUE continues on the road with a 6:30 p.m. game Monday at Southeast Missouri.