ST. LOUIS – Chu Crockett recorded her ninth double-double of the season, leading the Stephens Stars to a 75-50 victory over Missouri Baptist on Saturday afternoon at the Carl & Deloris Petty SRC.
Crockett was unstoppable in the paint, finishing with 21 points and 15 rebounds. LaiJanique Perry-Ellis contributed 15 points and three steals, while Syderah Farmer added nine points, four rebounds, and two steals.
Stephens (15-8, 12-5 AMC) battled through a slow start, trailing 14-11 after the first quarter. Crockett fueled the offense early with a pair of inside finishes, while Taylor Norris added a layup to keep the Stars close.
The Stars found their rhythm in the second quarter, outscoring Missouri Baptist 17-11 to take a 28-25 halftime lead.
Perry-Ellis orchestrated the attack, setting up Aushara Hostetler for her third three-pointer of the half.
Defensively, Syderah Farmer and Trinitee Alexander tightened up the paint, limiting second-chance opportunities for the Spartans.
Stephens pulled away in the third, shooting an efficient 46.7% from the field. Crockett continued to be a force in the paint, while Paula Puzule and Hostetler connected from beyond the arc. The Stars extended their lead to 49-41 entering the final period.
The fourth quarter was a clinic, as Stephens erupted for 26 points while holding Missouri Baptist to just nine.
Farmer and Hostetler drained crucial three-pointers, while Alexander's fast-break layup sealed the dominant win.
The Stars return home on Tuesday, Feb. 11, for a 5:30 p.m. matchup against Hannibal-LaGrange at Silverthorne Arena. The team will raise awareness for the Children's Cancer Research Fund with a raffle for a signed jersey and ball. Fans are encouraged to wear pink to show their support!