Lady Bears advance to CUSA title game with 74-69 win over FIU

Missouri State women's basketball team reaches 18th conference tournament championship game in program history

Mar. 14, 2026 at 10:37am

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The Missouri State Lady Bears women's basketball team defeated FIU 74-69 in the semifinals of the Conference USA tournament to advance to the championship game. The Lady Bears, led by 22 points from Kaemyn Bekemeier, overcame a late FIU rally to secure the victory. Missouri State will play for the CUSA title on March 14 against No. 1 seed Louisiana Tech.

Why it matters

This marks the 18th conference tournament championship game appearance for the Missouri State Lady Bears, showcasing the program's sustained excellence. Head coach Beth Cunningham also earned her 90th victory at the helm, further cementing the team's status as a perennial contender in the Conference USA.

The details

The Lady Bears built a double-digit lead in the first half, but FIU fought back to make it a one-point game late. Missouri State was able to hold on, converting free throws down the stretch to secure the 74-69 victory. Bekemeier led the way with 22 points, while Lainie Douglas (17 points), JaNyla Bush (12 points), and Kendal Brueggen (12 points) also contributed significantly.

  • The Lady Bears will play in the CUSA Women's Basketball Championship title game on March 14, 2026.
  • Missouri State led by 10 points heading into the fourth quarter.

The players

Kaemyn Bekemeier

The leading scorer for the Lady Bears, pouring in 22 points to pace the team's offense.

Beth Cunningham

The head coach of the Missouri State Lady Bears, earning her 90th victory at the helm of the program.

FIU

The opponent for the Lady Bears in the CUSA tournament semifinals, finishing the season with a 20-11 record.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.