Four years ago Mercer made its first trip to the Show-Me Showdown behind a team led by Sierra Michaelis. Once she graduated, Mercer reloaded with another talented class and that group has mirrored what Michaelis’ team accomplished through their own respective run.
The current edition of the Cardinals again followed in Michaelis’ footsteps on Friday night, defeating Jefferson 53-36 in the Class 1 State Quarterfinals inside the St. Joseph Civic Arena to clinch a return trip to Columbia for the program.
Mercer (29-1) took much of the drama out of the contest early, establishing an 11-5 lead in the first quarter and pushing the advantage to 25-9 by halftime. Mercer would lead 45-17 entering the fourth quarter where Jefferson mounted a rally. Mercer’s lead was too big to be overcome, however, as the Cardinals took the game by 17 points.
Lindsay Wyatt had 16 points and four assists to lead Mercer while Emily Sample finished with 14 points and two assists. Bailey Owens also reached double figures with 12 points and had five rebounds, three assists and three blocks. Nicole Kost added six points, five assists and two steals.
Mercer takes on South Iron in the semifinals on Thursday at Mizzou Arena in Columbia. Tip time is set for 3:20 p.m.
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