WALNUT RIDGE, Ark. – The Stephens College Stars are heading to the American Midwest Conference semifinals for the second consecutive year after securing a 63-51 victory over No. 5-seeded Cottey College on Friday night at Southerland-Mabee Center.

Perry-Ellis led all scorers with 16 points, while Norris added five points and three assists. Alonna Harvey-Williams contributed six points and three rebounds. Crockett dominated the glass, finishing the night with 14 points and 13 rebounds for her 10th double-double of the season.

The Stars (21-8, 17-5 AMC) wasted no time making an impact, as Taylor Norris drained a three-pointer within seconds of the opening tip-off from an assist from Chu Crockett. Stephens set the tone early, edging Cottey 20-19 in the first quarter.

The second quarter saw Stephens clamp down defensively, holding Cottey to just 11 points while capitalizing on second-chance opportunities. Trinitee Alexander added to the defensive effort with a key block, leading to a fast-break layup by Perry-Ellis to push the Stars' lead.

With a slim 34-30 lead at halftime, the Stars took control in the third quarter, limiting Cottey to just six points on 9.1% shooting from the field. LaiJanique Perry-Ellis provided an offensive spark, finishing with 16 points and six made free throws. Stephens outscored Cottey 14-6 in the frame to extend its lead heading into the final period.

Cottey attempted a late rally, but key defensive stops and steady free-throw shooting secured the win for the Stars, marking their eighth victory over the Comets in program history.

Stephens advances to face No. 1-seeded Williams Baptist in a highly anticipated semifinal rematch on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. The Stars fell 102-88 in last year's semifinal matchup but are determined to flip the script this time around.

More information about the tournament can be found HERE.