The State Fair Community College women’s basketball team improved their season record to 20-0 following a 68-62 victory over Mineral Area College on December 20, 2025. Despite a strong late-game push from Mineral Area, the 12th-ranked Roadrunners maintained their unbeaten streak in a tense matchup in Park Hills, Missouri.
State Fair, now holding a 5-0 record in their conference, showcased a solid defensive performance. The team forced 20 turnovers while only committing 11, which proved crucial in overcoming a previously established 14-point lead. With the win, State Fair is set to face off against Three Rivers in a highly anticipated Region 16 showdown next week.
Ellie Buscher led the scoring for the Roadrunners with 15 points and secured seven rebounds. Her teammate, Sophia Edwin, contributed significantly with 14 points, including timely baskets that helped stem the momentum of the Cardinals late in the game. Meanwhile, Mineral Area’s Mariah Dallas emerged as the standout performer, delivering a game-high 18 points along with a powerful rebounding presence.
The game took an exciting turn in the fourth quarter when Mineral Area managed to tie the game at 50-50 with just under nine minutes remaining. P.J. Reutzel and Presley Holweg each hit three-pointers on consecutive possessions to level the score. Despite this surge, the Cardinals struggled from beyond the arc, finishing just 2-of-18 on three-point attempts.
As the game unfolded, State Fair responded with key plays that restored their lead. Buscher hit a three-pointer, and Carolyn Foster scored on back-to-back steals, pushing the lead back to seven points. Dallas continued to battle, completing a three-point play that tied the game again at 58-58. However, a critical moment came when Reed hit a decisive three-pointer with 19 seconds left, providing State Fair with vital breathing room.
Holweg displayed her versatility with a strong performance, recording 12 points, 11 rebounds, and three steals, although she faced challenges with seven turnovers. Teammate Casey Teague also made an impact, contributing 10 points, seven rebounds, and five blocks.
The Roadrunners displayed discipline during their final possession, which culminated in Reed’s critical three-pointer. This was complemented by free throws from Reed, sealing the victory as Mineral Area quickly attempted to respond with a layup from Teague.
Overall, the game highlighted the resilience of both teams. Mineral Area’s bench contributed 11 points, and Karma Jones led the Cardinals with six assists. The Cardinals, now 12-8 with a 1-4 conference record, are scheduled to face Wabash Valley in a rematch, temporarily stepping away from regional play.
The thrilling contest not only solidified State Fair’s unbeaten record but also set the stage for an exciting upcoming match against Three Rivers, as they look to maintain their momentum in the season.
