ST. LOUIS – [BOX SCORE] In their first test prior to the 2016-17 season, the Spartans struggled to put points on the board against a stingy Drury (Mo.) Panther defense in a 90-54 loss in Springfield, Mo.
Missouri Baptist put together a nice effort in the first quarter and entered the first break down just 17-13. Down 17-10 with just 31 second left in the quarter, Amanda Rowden drained the three-ball to put the Spartans within striking distance heading for the second quarter.
The Panthers turned-on the jets in the second frame and amassed a 17-point lead before the half based on a speedy defense. Drury forced an impressive 20 turnovers overall in the opening half as they rolled to the exhibition victory.
Perhaps the best quarter for the Spartans was the final one. MBU posted 21 fourth-quarter points and began to show signs of good things to come in 2016.
Briya Wilborn led all Spartans with 10 points and added seven boards in the game. Kennedy Smith played strong underneath the hoop as well and finished with nine rebounds.
In her first action as a Spartan, Jordan Bruenton finished with nine points on the night.
Adrienne Horn led the Panthers in the game. The sophomore from St. Louis (Westminster Christian Academy) continued a big end to her freshman campaign a season ago with a 15-point outburst on Tuesday.
Heather Harmon and Hailey Diestelkamp combined for 22 points in the game while Emily Miller, finished with 10.
Missouri Baptist will now have a few days to rest-up before hosting Morthland (Ill.) in the 2016-17 season opener. Tip-off is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. at the Carl and Delores Petty Sports and Recreation Complex.
