The MBU women's basketball team opened the American Midwest Conference Season with a home win over Stephens College (Columbia, Mo.) on Saturday. The Lady Spartans improve to 9-4 overall, while the Stars drop to 7-5.

The Lady Spartans held just a two point lead over the Stars at half time, as the score stood 31-29. A revived offensive effort in the second half saw the Lady Spartans widen the lead to double digits. With two minutes remaining, costly turnovers brought Stephens within four of MBU. The Lady Spartans regained control of the ball and the tempo to finsh the game and take a 75-66 win. 
 
The Stars offense saw a big boost from the line, as they went to the foul line 43 times, connecting 29 times. The Lady Spartans recorded 19 steals, forcing 32 SC turnovers. Both teams battled on the glass, with Stephens taking a 41-37 rebounding advantage. MBU found a way out of its December shooting slump, hitting 41% from the field. 
 
MBU junior guard Megan Payton led all scorers with 28 points. She also led the MBU rebounding effort, pulling down 8 rebounds. Junior guard Meagan Price added 13 points. Sophomore guard Andrea Seabaugh dished out 3 assists and grabbed 3 steals and 3 rebounds.
 
The Lady Spartans will return home on Thursday, January 14, as they host Harris-Stowe State University (1-10, 0-1) in AMC play.