Kearney, Neb. – The 11th-ranked Central Missouri Jennies hit nine three pointers and played stellar defense to defeat Nebraska-Kearney, 81-46, Saturday afternoon in Warrensburg.

The preseason favorites in the MIAA, UCM improves to 11-1 (5-0) while UNK falls to 11-3 (3-3 MIAA).

The Lopers made at least 50 percent of its field goals in its last three games but connected on just 26 percent (17 of 65) of its shots today. UCM came in leading the MIAA in scoring defense (53.5 points per game) and ranked fourth in field goal percentage defense (35.5).

Both teams got off to cold starts as they combined for 21 points on 9 of 35 shooting (26 percent) in the first quarter. That included a 1 of 10 effort from behind the arc. For UNK, senior guard Michaela Barry (Battle Creek) was whistled for two offensive fouls.

While the Lopers remained cold in the second quarter, the Jennies slowly warmed up to lead 29-17 at the break. UCM then got it going in the second half, tallying 52 points thanks to five threes.

Eleven different Jennies scored with starters Paige Redmond (19) and Kelsey Williams (11) leading the way. Redmond went 3 of 5 from behind the arc with three reserves combining for five made triples. As a team, UCM shot 49 percent (32 of 66) from the floor, had a plus 10 rebounding margin and never trailed.

Eleven Lopers managed to score with Barry having a team-high 13 points. One of two Lopers to reach double figures, she finished with three fouls and four made field goals (one three). Next, Grand Island senior McKenzie Brown got close to a second straight double double (11 points and a team-high eight rebounds) with Kansas sophomore reserve guard Terran Hoyt having five points in 11 minutes.

UNK heads to Fort Hays State next Saturday afternoon. The Tigers (12-3, 3-3) edged Southwest Baptist today, 62-61.