Columbia, Mo- Stephens Stars basketball hosted The University of Health Sciences & Pharmacy Eutectics in a daring American Midwest Conference match-up and won 68-53.
The Stars started the game off strong by winning the jump ball resulting in an athletic Marveen Ross layup. The offensive effort in the first quarter was led by Freshman Lauren Friedrich. Mia Morel had an outstanding performance overall, finishing the half with 7 and ending the afternoon as the leading scorer with an impressive 17 points.
The momentum carried into the second period when Lauren Friedrich exploded out of the break with a quick lay-up. The Stars' defense continued to dominate, effectively shutting down the Eutectics' leading scorer and capitalizing on their errors.
A pivotal moment in the second half came when Lauren Friedrich hit her 34th 3-pointer of the season and the Stars first of the game, prompting an exuberant reaction from the bench. The stars extended their smothering defense which led to 22 total turnovers for the Eutectics and 10 steals for Stephens.
In the fourth quarter, Mia Morel contributed with a smooth 3-point jumper, and Savanna "Chu" Crockett followed suit with a successful lay-up and a made free throw, further solidifying the Stars' control over the game.
Looking ahead, the Stars return to play on February 8th as they take on Cottey College at 5:30 pm on the road in Nevada, Mo.
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