Cottey closed its 2025–26 season on the road at powerhouse Columbia (MO), battling through stretches of tough shooting but finishing with a fourth‑quarter surge that reflected the group's resilience and growth. The Comets fell 70–44, ending the year at 6–22, while Columbia improved to 28–1.

How the Game Unfolded

Early competitiveness, then Columbia's size and pace took control

Cottey opened with energy, trading baskets early behind Gabrielle Burrus and Ava Maner, but Columbia's interior presence and second‑chance scoring created separation. The Comets trailed 19–10 after one and 34–21 at halftime, staying within striking distance thanks to defensive effort and steady free‑throw shooting.

The third quarter proved decisive. Columbia held Cottey to just four points, using a 10–0 run to build a lead the Comets couldn't fully erase. Still, Cottey responded with its best offensive stretch of the night in the fourth, scoring 19 points and attacking the rim with confidence.

Cottey Standouts

Gabrielle Burrus – 16 points, the engine all night

Burrus closed her season with one of her most assertive performances:

• 16 points on 6–14 shooting

• A team‑best 3-for-3 at the line

• The lone Comet to hit a three

She carried the scoring load early and sparked the fourth‑quarter push.

Ava Maner – 7 points, 8 rebounds, steady interior presence

Maner battled Columbia's size for 35 minutes, finishing with:

• 7 points

• 8 rebounds

• Strong defensive positioning and physicality

Her work on the glass helped Cottey stay competitive in long stretches.

AuShae Farris – 7 points, fearless attacking the rim

Farris created offense with her slashing ability, adding:

• 7 points

• 3 rebounds

• A key three‑pointer in the first half

Brecklen Morrison – 6 points, toughness off the bench

Morrison went 6-for-7 at the line and brought defensive energy in her 30 minutes.

Ellaina LaNear – 9 rebounds, anchoring the paint

LaNear didn't score much, but her 9 rebounds (8 defensive) were crucial in limiting Columbia's second‑chance opportunities.

Columbia's Response

Columbia showed why it sits near the top of the NAIA:

• Ashtyn Klusmeyer poured in 22 points

• Lexi Miller added a double‑double with 14 points and 11 rebounds

• The Cougars won the rebounding battle 51–34 and shot 40% from the field

Their depth and physicality wore on Cottey as the game progressed.

Season Reflection

Despite the loss, Cottey closed the season with:

• A strong fourth‑quarter fight

• Multiple underclassmen stepping into bigger roles

• Clear growth in defensive structure and rebounding toughness