Indianapolis, Ind. - For the first time in program history, the Stephens College Stars Basketball team traveled to Indianapolis to play in the NAIA Women's Basketball Championship First and Second Round, presented by Ballogy.  

Going into the Second Round ranked No. 9 in the Naismith Quadrant, the Stars took on the No. 1 Marian University (Ind.) Knights Saturday evening at Marian University. Despite a valiant effort, they lost 49-63, bringing a bittersweet end to their historic season with an overall record of 23-8. 

The game began with the Stars taking an early lead, scoring the first two baskets. However, the Knights quickly responded with 6 points of their own, and Arthel Massaquoi was able to score in the paint to tie the game at 6-6. The Knights gained momentum in the second quarter, going on a 9-point spree and extending their lead. The Stars were called for several fouls in the first half putting the majority of the starting five into foul trouble by the end of the second quarter. Despite intense offensive and defensive efforts from the Stars, including a three-point play by Alayasia Douglas, found themselves trailing by 12 points at halftime, with the score at 19-31. 

At the halfway mark, Douglas led the Stars with five points and two steals, while Marveen Ross and Massaquoi each contributed four points.

In the third quarter, the Stars sought to mount a comeback, sparked by a jumper from Chu Crockett, which initiated a five-point run. Again, the lopsided foul calls put the Stars in trouble and the Knights were able to maintain control of the game.

As the game entered the fourth quarter, the Knights continued their aggressive offensive and defensive play as the Stars continued to fight back. However, despite a spirited effort from the Stars, highlighted by a late six-point push, they ultimately fell short, with the final score standing at 49-63 in favor of the Knights. Crockett led the charge with 11 points (5 field goals), 8 rebounds, and 1 block. Aushara Hostetler and Lauren Friedrich both had one 3-pointer each, Douglas led with three free throws, and Ross also had 1 block. 

"Our journey doesn't end here. It's a stepping stone for greater achievements next season. We've grown from this experience, and only plan to come back stronger and more determined than ever before," Head Coach Andre Bell speaks about the season. "We are grateful to the Board Members and our President for making this all possible. Hopefully, the rest of the basketball world knows who and where Stephens Stars Basketball resides." 

Leading into their first-ever NAIA Championship Tournament appearance, the 2023-24 Stars team left an indelible mark in the basketball record books at Stephens College, with standout performances across various statistical categories. Hostetler led the charge by setting a record for 3-pointers made in a season with 60, while Mia Morel took the top spot in steals made in a season at 75. Crockett finished the season as AMC Defensive Player of the Year & Newcomer of the Year and is ranked in multiple statistical categories in only her junior season.  Finally, multiple Stars standout players were among the top five in seven categories for individual seasons and career statistics.  

The Stars also celebrated the remarkable achievements of five players who surpassed the 1,000-point milestone in their collegiate careers. Ross, Massaquoi, and Douglas reached this illustrious milestone, while Crockett crossed the 1,200-point threshold and Zaraya March scored past 1,500 collegiate career points, further solidifying their legacy in Stars basketball history.