CEDAR RAPIDS, IOWA - Missouri Baptist University women's basketball opened 2026 with a strong road performance, pulling away in the second half to secure a 74–58 victory over Mount Mercy University on Saturday afternoon at Hennessey Recreation Center. 

 
Riley Jansen led the Spartans offensively, finishing with 13 points on 5-of-7 shooting while adding four rebounds and a free throw in the win. Eva Parks shot two for two in free throws and also added ten points to the board.  

 
Missouri Baptist controlled the tempo early and held a slim 35–31 lead at halftime before creating separation in the third quarter. The Spartans outscored Mount Mercy 20–14 in the period, using efficient shooting and inside scoring to build momentum. 

Abigail Williams provided a strong presence in the paint with 12 points and seven rebounds, while Paula Puzule added 11 points, including three made three-pointers. Missouri Baptist shot 46.0 percent from the field and converted 88.9 percent from the free-throw line, finishing with a 38–36 rebounding edge. 

The Spartans continued to extend their lead in the fourth quarter, holding Mount Mercy to 25.0 percent shooting in the final period to seal the 16-point road victory. 

Missouri Baptist will continue its road stretch, taking on Culver Stockton College on January 7. Tip-off will go live at 5:30 p.m., and MBU will look to build on the momentum from its first win of 2026.