ROLLA, Mo. - McKendree University women's basketball captured its first win of the new year on Saturday afternoon with an 84-71 victory over the Missouri University of Science & Technology. The Bearcats improve to 11-3 overall and 7-1 against Great Lakes Valley Conference opponents.  

McKendree came out hot, shooting 55 percent from the field in the first quarter and 71 percent from the field in the second quarter. The Miners were held to just nine points in the second quarter as the Bearcats held the advantage heading into halftime, 46-27. Missouri S&T was able to convert more baskets in the second half but could not overcome McKendree's early and consistent lead. 

The win marked the Bearcats' third time this season with a field goal percentage of more than 50 percent as McKendree netted 54 percent of its tries.  

Three Bearcats scored in double digits including senior forward Naomi McDaniel with 16 points, junior guard Clare Breden at 15 points, and freshman forward Baylie Parks who netted a career-high 10 points. McDaniel was 8-for-10 from the field while Parks sank 5-of-7 shots. Shooting a perfect 100 percent on the day was senior guard Maclayne Taylor with two field goals and two free throws for six points.  

On the boards, McKendree was led by senior guard Christy Fortune who tied her career high in rebounds snagging 10 while McDaniel added seven. Senior guard Madyson Harper topped the assists and steals with five and four, respectively.  

Coming up, the Bearcats are on the road again in a week to face the University of Missouri-St. Louis on Saturday, Jan. 13 at 1 p.m.