EMPORIA, Ks. - Women's Basketball picked up a huge win to open 2024, defeating the Emporia State Hornets to pick up their first win in MIAA play this season. 

The Jets had played some tough games at home before the Christmas break, and it seemed that the extra rest and practice helped the team out in their first outing of the new year. 

Following a fast start for the Jets, the Hornets took a slim lead that would not last for long.

Freshmen Carli Carlson and Jaeden McMillin hit back to back three pointers in back to back possessions to really give the Jets an edge over the Hornets. 

Carlson had a great first half, including scoring nine points from three pointers, all of which hit in the first quarter. 

With paint points coming from Amaya Perez and Valeriya Lioukina in the second quarter, the Jets took one of their most dominating leads to half with a ten point advantage at the midway point. 

The Hornets adjusted at the half and would eventually regain the lead in the third quarter, but would only be able to get up by just three points before a Carissa Beck three tied the affair, with all to play for in the final quarter. 

Emporia State again took a small lead, but more excellent three point shooting from Dani Williams and Perez gave the Jets control of the game once again. 

Five Jets finished in double figures, with four of the starters hitting the mark. 

The Jets had one of their best three point shooting nights of the season, making 11 and shooting over 40%. The Jets were also good from the free throw line, making all of their attempts in the first half. 

The Jets will head to Topeka on Saturday to take on a tough Washburn squad, with tipoff scheduled for 1 PM.