February 21, 2026 Final: Harris‑Stowe 55, Cottey 54

Cottey College came within inches of a road conference win on Saturday, but a big third‑quarter surge from Harris‑Stowe and a tense final minute ultimately swung the game the Hornets' way as the Comets fell 55–54 in St. Louis. Despite the narrow loss, Cottey delivered one of its most balanced offensive performances of the season and controlled the game for long stretches.

First Quarter – Comets Set the Tone

Cottey opened the afternoon with confidence, shooting 50 percent from the field and moving the ball with purpose. Andrea Aragon and Ava Maner set the early pace, combining for 11 first‑quarter points as the Comets took a 17–16 lead after one.

Second Quarter – Cottey Extends the Lead

The Comets continued to execute on both ends, holding Harris‑Stowe to just six points in the second quarter. Aragon stayed hot, scoring 10 first‑half points, while Sadie Hubbard and AuShae Farris provided steady interior play.

Cottey entered halftime up 30–22, controlling tempo and limiting the Hornets' transition opportunities.

Third Quarter – Harris‑Stowe Swings Momentum

The game flipped in the third as Harris‑Stowe erupted for 22 points, led by a dominant stretch from Alivia Montgomery, who finished with a game‑high 24. The Hornets attacked downhill, got to the line, and forced Cottey into tough possessions.

Despite buckets from Maner and Farris, the Comets were outscored 22–13 in the frame and trailed 44–43 heading into the fourth.

Fourth Quarter – A One‑Possession Battle to the End

Both teams traded stops and free throws in a defensive fourth quarter. Cottey tied the game multiple times, and Brecklen Morrison, Ellaina LaNear, and Ally Potts all provided key minutes off the bench.

With under a minute left, Harris‑Stowe converted at the line to go up one. Cottey had a final possession to win it, but the Hornets' defense held, sealing the 55–54 result.

Cottey Standouts

Andrea Aragon – 14 points, 2 threes, 2 assists

Efficient and poised, Aragon was the engine of Cottey's first‑half offense.

Ava Maner – 10 points, 6 assists

A steady two‑way presence who facilitated beautifully and controlled pace.

AuShae Farris – 9 points, 2 steals

Hit timely shots and brought energy on both ends.

Gabrielle Burrus – 7 points, 4-for-4 FT

Provided leadership and clutch free‑throw shooting.

Ellaina LaNear – 4 points, 6 rebounds

Physical, active, and impactful off the bench.

Ally Potts – 4 points (2-for-2)

Gave Cottey a spark in limited minutes.