Springfield, MO - Stephens College earned a 74–70 road victory over Mission (Mo.) on Thursday evening at W.E. Dowell Fieldhouse, improving to 7–12 overall and 6–3 in conference play.
The Stars were locked in a tight battle early and trailed 22–20 after the first quarter, but responded with a strong second period. Stephens outscored Mission 21–14 in the quarter to take a 41–36 lead into halftime. The Stars continued to build momentum in the third, extending the lead to double digits behind steady offense and consistent defensive pressure.
LaiJanique Perry-Ellis led all scorers with 25 points, going 7-for-8 from the free-throw line while adding five rebounds and four assists. Simone Clay finished with 11 points and knocked down three three-pointers, while Destinee Hunt and Quimari Shelton each scored eight points. Hunt controlled the glass with eight rebounds, and Shelton added seven boards as Stephens finished with a 41–29 advantage on the boards.
Mission made a late push in the fourth quarter, cutting the deficit to two in the final minute, but Perry-Ellis sealed the win at the free-throw line. Stephens shot 41.3 percent from the field and scored 21 second-chance points, helping the Stars close out the road win.
