Just one possession separated Northwest Missouri State and Central Missouri early in the second quarter Thursday evening, but the Bearcat offense fell silent for more than six minutes and the Jennies distanced themselves en route to a 71-53 win.
Northwest (7-18, 3-13 MIAA) trailed 15-12 when UCM went on a 12-0 run on their home floor.
Mallory McConkey and Jaelyn Haggard led the 'Cats with 13 points apiece. Kendey Eaton added 11 points.
The loss combine with a Southwest Baptist victory drops Northwest to No. 12 in the MIAA standings with three regular season games remaining.
The top 10 advance to the MIAA Tournament in Kansas City. The Bearcats are currently two games back of Missouri Southern for the final spot.
Northwest can pick up some ground Saturday in Bolivar when they meet Southwest Baptist. Game time is set for 1:30pm. Pregame begins at 1:10pm on KXCV 90.5 and KRNW 88.9.