Leavenworth, Kan.- The Univeristy of Saint Mary Women's Basketball team hosted the Avila Eagles to open KCAC play on Wednesday, resulting in a 66-54 win. The Spires are now 3-2 overall and 1-0 in the KCAC. 

Saint Mary struck first, with four points coming from Tanea Sims, but the Eagles had an answer and built a 12-7 lead at one point. The Spires responded with back-to-back threes from Katelynn Ostronic and Keely Barnard to retake the lead. Saint Mary continued to press offensively as Tatum Studer nailed a three to open the second quarter. Ostronic recorded the final three points of the half for the Spires, who entered halftime with a 28-22 lead. 

Barnard opened the third quarter with another three, while Paige Pendly hit two free throws to take a 35-27 lead. Rebecca Gilpin and Barnard each hit another three as the quarter ended to make it a 48-39 ball game. Avila could not seem to get within striking distance of the Spires as they controlled the ball in the final quarter to seal a 66-54 win over the Eagles.

Barnard led the offensive effort with 19 points and five made threes, while Sims posted a double-double with 12 points and 13 rebounds. 

Up Next 

Saint Mary will travel to take on the Sterling College Warriors at 3 p.m. on Saturday in Sterling, Kansas.