Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia College women's basketball (2-1) team recorded their second win of the season, defeating Westminster College (Mo.), 77-54. The game was counted as an exhibition for Westminster and did not count towards their overall record. 

Columbia played a close first quarter with the Blue Jays, leading by as many as five after an and-one basket from Peyton Crow (14-9). Westminster took the lead with a minute and a half on the clock, but Columbia had a four-point advantage going into the second quarter (19-15).

The Blue Jays did not hold back, cutting the Cougar lead down to two points near the second quarter's end. Columbia went on a 6-0 run heading into the half, ending with a layup from DeLaney Horstman (38-30).

Columbia's lead reached 14 midway through the third period and held their edge the rest of the contest.

In the final quarter, Columbia shot 47 percent from the field while also achieving their largest lead of the game of 23-points.

Key Moment:
Peyton Crowe added a layup followed by a three-pointer, adding five quick points to the Cougar lead. This led to a 45-35 Columbia advantage, continuing their momentum throughout the rest of the contest. 

By the Numbers:
40-16 – Columbia held an advantage in points in the paint.
18 – CC forced 18 turnovers
23 – The Cougars led by as many as 23 points

Columbia College Leaders:
Scoring Leader – Abby Backes - 19
Rebounding Leader – Clare Shetley - 11
Assist Leader – Abby Backes - 4
Steals Leader – Abby Backes / Mallory Shetley - 3

Westminster College Leaders:
Scoring Leader – Avylina Powell-Qualo - 13
Rebounding Leader – Avylina Powell-Qualo - 12
Assist Leader – Avylina Powell-Qualo - 2
Steals Leader – Annette Ramirez- 4

Socket Player of the Game
Abby Backes – Shot 7-15 from the field, adding 19 points, four assists, and three steals.

Up Next:
The Cougars will host Indiana Wesleyan at Southwell Complex on Thursday, November 4 at 5:00 PM.