WALNUT RIDGE, Ark. – In a hard-fought battle, the Stephens College Stars saw their postseason run come to an end Saturday afternoon, falling 92-106 to No. 1-seeded Williams Baptist in the American Midwest Conference semifinals at Southerland-Mabee Center.

The Stars (21-9, 17-5 AMC) matched up against Williams Baptist in the semifinal round for the second straight year but could not avenge last season's loss. Despite a strong offensive performance, Stephens couldn't overcome a second-half surge from the Eagles.

"It was a hard-fought game today as we battled to the finish, but unfortunately, we didn't get the results we wanted," head coach Andre Bell said. "I cannot be more proud of this group of players and coaching staff for sticking with it all season. I am truly blessed to have been a part of this amazing group of Stephens Stars Basketball family."

Stephens came out firing in the first quarter, with Taylor Norris sinking an early three-pointer to set the tone. LaiJanique Perry-Ellis led the scoring effort, pouring in a game-high 28 points while also collecting three steals. Chu Crockett secured her 11th double-double of the season, finishing with 16 points and 10 rebounds. 

The Stars held a narrow 22-17 lead after the first quarter and extended their advantage to 46-40 by halftime. However, Williams Baptist responded in the third quarter, cutting into the deficit.

Despite a back-and-forth fourth quarter, Williams Baptist capitalized on key defensive stops and free throws down the stretch to pull away. Norris finished with 21 points, going 5-of-10 from beyond the arc, while Alonna Harvey-Williams added 13 points and four rebounds.

The loss marks the end of an impressive season for the Stars, who reached the AMC semifinals for the second consecutive year and secured their second straight 20-win campaign.