Turnovers doom Comets in loss to Hesston

HESSTON, Kan. -- The Cottey Comets were dealt a tough defeat Tuesday night on the hardwood, falling 71-69 to Hesston (Kan.) College. The Comets (2-6 overall) previously drilled Hesston Nov.5 in Nevada.

"It was a 28-point swing in Hesston's favor," Comets head coach Stephanie Beason said. "We beat them by 26 in our home-opener."

The Comets trailed 18-16 at the conclusion of the first quarter, but gabbed a 35-34 halftime lead. The score was knotted at 50 apiece entering the fourth quarter, as the Comets were outscored 21-19 in the final frame.

The Comets shot just 33 percent from the field, and had an especially rough second half, connecting on just 10-of-41 field goal attempts. Meanwhile, Hesston shot just 30.3 percent from the field for the contest.

Cottey also committed 24 turnovers, which Hesston converted into 27 points.

"Consistency and turnovers continue to be our downfall right now," Beason said. "Credit to Hesston and their sense of urgency throughout the game. They had us sped up for most of the second half and were able to capitalize on our turnovers."

For the Comets, Kelsey Acton tallied a double-double, finishing with 15 points and 11 rebounds, to go along with three assists, a steal and a block. Comets center Cheyenne Ortiz chipped in with 14 points, 10 rebounds and a trio of blocks. Guard Alex Alvarez added nine points and four assists, while sophomore Dezha Parker also finished with nine points.