FULTON, Mo. - Stephens College (8-14, 3-1 AMC) fell in a hard-fought four-set match to Westminster College (13-13), 23-25, 22-25, 25-13, 21-25. Despite the loss, the Stars showcased resilience and key offensive performances from Amari Branch-Autman and Jamie Russell.

Branch-Autman led the offense with 14 kills and a .407 hitting percentage, while Russell added 16 kills and hit .341.

Westminster started the match strong, narrowly edging out Stephens in the first two sets. The Stars battled back in the third, taking control early and dominating the set 25-13. 

Stephens found momentum in the third set with a solid .152 hitting percentage and effective play at the net. Setter Emma Whitson orchestrated the offense with 45 assists, distributing the ball well to her hitters. Izzy Benson added 11 kills and 14 digs. 

The fourth set was tightly contested, with Westminster pulling ahead late to win 25-21. Stephens' defensive effort was led by libero Jatnna Peña-Perez, who notched 19 digs and added a service ace.

The Stars will return home on Saturday, Oct. 19, for their Pink Out match in support of Breast Cancer Awareness. All proceeds from the event will be donated to the Side-Out Foundation. Stephens will face Crowley's Ridge College at 12 p.m. as they look to get back on track.