BARTLESVILLE, OKLA. -- The Bellevue University women's basketball team got off to a slow start, scoring just 25 first-half points, as the Bruins dropped their season opener to Oklahoma Wesleyan, 77-65, Friday night at the Oklahoma Wesleyan Classic being played at the Mueller Sports Center.
Jamie Winkler led the Bruins with 11 points and a pair of rebounds. She was 4-of-12 from the field while hitting on 2-of-5 shots from behind the arc. Jerrene Richardson and Elexis Martinez both contributed with 10 points in the loss. Martinez added a team-high seven rebounds.
The Bruins out-shot the Eagles 58.3 to 53.2 percent from the field, but OKWU connected on nine 3-point field goals, compared to five for the Bruins. Both teams nailed 18 free throws in the game.
The Eagles had a balanced attack, led by Amanda Hart, who poured in 15 points. Brittan Garrett and Essence Tolson each chipped in 14 points. Nicole Ickes was the fourth Eagle in double figures, finishing with 12 points.
The Bruins will continue action in the tournament on Saturday with a 4 p.m. contest against McPherson College.
