Columbia, MO - Stephens College fell 64–53 to Columbia College on Thursday evening in Columbia, Missouri, in a hard-fought conference matchup. The Stars stayed within reach for much of the night and cut the deficit to just three points late in the fourth quarter, but Columbia closed the game at the free throw line to secure the win.

Columbia set the tone early, jumping out to a double-digit lead in the first quarter. Stephens responded with a stronger second period, outscoring the Cougars 15–14 and finding more offensive rhythm. The Stars continued to apply pressure in the third quarter, holding Columbia to just eight points and trimming the margin to five heading into the final ten minutes.

Quimari Shelton led all scorers with 21 points, consistently attacking the basket and finishing through contact. LaiJanique Perry-Ellis added 14 points and four assists, while Simone Clay contributed 12 points, including four three-pointers. Stephens generated much of its offense inside, finishing with 32 points in the paint and creating opportunities off turnovers.

The game remained tight down the stretch, but Columbia was able to capitalize at the free throw line in the final quarter, converting 14 attempts to pull away. Despite the result, Stephens showed strong defensive effort and resilience, staying competitive against one of the top teams in the conference.