In a game more exciting than meaningful, the Webster University women’s basketball team lost its regular season finale at Fontbonne University, 57-56, on February 22.  The Gorloks had already previously secured a berth in the St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference post-season tournament. Webster’s and Fontbonne’s standing in the SLIAC already determined they would face each other in the first round.

Webster mounted a valiant second half comeback, but was unable to convert with possession of the ball with only 25 seconds remaining in the game. The Gorloks were down 30-17 at the half, but went on a 17-2 run that pulled them ahead 41-40 with 11:52 in the second. A three-pointer by Jaime Gaal (SO, Ursuline Academy) at 2:30 put Webster up 52-48, but the Griffins pecked away and tied the game 56-all with :25 seconds left in the contest.

The Gorloks were unable to get a shot off and lost an inbounds pass at 4.5 seconds, leading to a Fontbonne breakaway and foul by Webster with :00.9 on the game clock.  Fontbonne converted the first free throw to seal the win. The two teams played two regular season games with last second finishes, making for a promising re-match in the SLIAC tournament.

Katy Meyer (SR, Parkway Central HS) continues to wield a hot hand as her stellar career nears its end, scoring 23 points on 9-15 shooting. Megan Willett (JR, Parkway West HS) had 10 points and a team-high eight rebounds.  The Gorloks finished at 10-6 in the SLIAC and are 15-10 overall.

Webster and Fontbonne face off in Fulton, MO, on February 24, at Westminster College. Game time will be at 6:00 p.m. The championship game will be February 26 at 1:00 p.m. back at Westminster. Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for students with a school ID and children ages 5-16. There is no charge for children under 5 years of age.