COLUMBIA, Mo. - The (RV) Columbia College women's basketball team endured their third loss of the season this afternoon after a 67-54 defeat to Stephens College (Mo.).

The Cougars move to 23-3 on the season and 17-3 in the American Midwest Conference (AMC).

The opening quarter was a back-and-forth battle for both squads consisting of eight lead changes. Stephens posted the last five points of the first quarter, holding a 18-13 advantage. The Stars shot nearly 43 percent from the field, while the Cougars shot 35 percent.

Columbia got within three multiple times in the second quarter, but could not overcome the deficit. The Cougars gave up 12 points in the paint and a 9-2 Stars run heading into the locker room down 36-26.

Putting up their best quarter of the game, Columbia tried to bring an answer, scoring 17 points. Stephens also held a steady third quarter of action, shooting 50 percent from the field with 18 points. After a made three from Lexi Miller and a jumper from Tori Rubel, Columbia saw themselves down four with 4:20 remaining in the third period. 

However, the Stars regained momentum, taking a 54-43 advantage into the final quarter.

Stephens began the fourth quarter on a 7-0 run, as they gained their largest lead of the contest, 61-43. 

Mallory Shetley added six straight points with 3:55 remaining in the game, but it was not enough as Stephens secured a 67-54 victory.

The Stars outworked the Cougars in points in the paint, 38-14.

Mallory Shetley led all scorers with 31 points, while also adding two steals.

Mya Miller brought down nine rebounds, dishing out two assists.

The Cougars added 15 turnovers in the contest, compared to nine from the Stars.

The Cougars return to action as they hit the road against Central Baptist College (Ark.) on February 20 at 5:30 p.m.