SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – The Stephens College Stars continued their winning ways, securing a 79-64 victory over Mission University on Thursday night in AMC play. The win, highlighted by Chu Crockett's fourth double-double of the season, moved the Stars to 11-7 overall and 8-4 in conference action.
Crockett led the Stars with 17 points, 13 rebounds, and a block, while LaiJanique Perry-Ellis scored a game-high 26 points on 10-of-19 shooting. Trinitee Alexander added 19 points off the bench, shooting an impressive 7-for-9 from the field.
The Stars opened with a balanced attack, with Perry-Ellis scoring six of the team's first eight points, including a layup off a Crockett assist. Mission responded with sharp shooting, knocking down two three-pointers to help the home team secure a 19-13 lead at the end of the first quarter.
Stephens found their rhythm in the second quarter, outscoring Mission 22-17 to pull ahead. Crockett made her presence known, grabbing offensive rebounds and scoring inside to ignite a run. Alexander added a layup and a free throw, while Aushara Hostetler sank two critical three-pointers to help Stephens enter halftime with a 36-35 advantage.
The Stars took control in the third quarter, outscoring Mission 25-12. Perry-Ellis dominated the period, scoring eight points, including two layups in transition. Alexander provided additional scoring with back-to-back baskets in the paint, and Hostetler drained another three-pointer to extend the lead to 60-48 entering the fourth.
Stephens maintained their momentum in the final quarter, led by Crockett's dominance in the paint. She pulled down four rebounds, playing a key role in helping the Stars fend off any comeback attempts. Alexander added a late layup, and Perry-Ellis sealed the win with a free throw in the final minutes.
The Stars return to Silverthorne Arena on Saturday, Jan. 25, to host Cottey College at 1 p.m. Fans can follow live coverage at stephensstars.com.