Bobcats can't keep pace with New Mexico, drop season opener

Texas State was evenly matched through the first half.

The Bobcats led the Lobos through the first quarter of their first-round road matchup with New Mexico at the Preseason Women’s National Invitational Tournament, 16-14. The home team took the lead back in the second quarter, but senior guard Toshua Leavitt scored seven unanswered points to close the half, cutting the Lobos lead to 29-27.

The visitors collapsed in the second half, as New Mexico advanced to the next round, blowing out the Bobcats 82-51.

After shooting 34.4 percent from the field and 50 percent from deep in the first quarter, the Bobcats’ offense went stagnant, falling to 23.3 and 16.7 percent, respectively. The Lobos’ defense wrecked havoc on Texas State, forcing 24 turnovers on the night.

Five newcomers made their first appearance for the maroon and gold, including four freshmen in guard JaKayla Bowie, forward Da’Nasia Hood, center Jaeda Kennedy Taylor and guard Kennedy Taylor, and transfer junior forward Jazza Johns. Bowie and Johns tied for second-most points on the team with six apiece.

Leavitt finished the game with 18 points on 5-16 shooting, three assists, a steal and eight turnovers.

The Bobcats will look to bounce back in the consolation bracket of the tournament, hosting Nicholls State on Nov. 16 at 6:30 p.m. inside Strahan Arena.