When a pump-fake near the corner didn't create enough separation for Kaemyn Bekemeier, the Republic star improvised by launching a leaning 3-point attempt.
After it dropped through the cylinder to give the Tigers their first double-digit cushion against Kickapoo in the third quarter of the Pink and White Lady Classic semifinals on Thursday night at the O'Reilly Event Center, it became clear that it was the Missouri State recruit's night.
The 5-foot-10 guard poured in a game-high 25 points in a 55-48 win, helping No. 2 seed Republic snap a five-game losing streak against the third-seeded Lady Chiefs and advance to Friday's White Division championship round.