Fayette, Mo. - The No. 2 Central Methodist Women's Basketball program fell in its season opener to Stephens College by a final score of 86-77 Wednesday night inside Puckett Field House. 

The Eagles fell in a 24-16 hole after the first quarter, before trailing 45-35 at the halftime break. CMU battled back in the third quarter, outscoring Stephens 26-17. 

Trailing just 62-61 entering the fourth, Central was unable to pull out in front in the final frame, as the Stars outscored CMU 24-16 to earn the nine-point victory. 

Three of Central's five starters reached double-figures, led by Zutorya Cook who poured in 23 points on 50-percent shooting from the floor. She also added 10 assists to earn a double-double paired with six steals and two rebounds. 

Sharay Trotter added 12 points, five rebounds, and four assists, while B'Aunce Carter tallied 11 points, three rebounds, and a steal. 

Stephens just edged Central on the glass, 39-38, but the Stars converted 75-percent from the free throw line compared to 56.7-percent for the Eagles. 

Stephens also shot a cool 47.2-percent from the floor and knocked down nine three-point baskets. 

Central will hit the road to face Haskell Indian Nations University Tuesday, Nov. 7 at 7:00 p.m. in Lawrence, Kansas. 

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