FAYETTE, Iowa – The 2017-18 season got off to a bang for the Griffon women's basketball team as Missouri Western dominated Southwest Minnesota for a 76-46 season opening win.
 
The Griffons started both halves hot, taking an 18-8 first quarter lead, then opening the second half with a 24-9 run in the third quarter. It was the second time in as many seasons the team opened with a big win over Southwest Minnesota.
 
KEY STATS

• Missouri Western out-rebounded the Mustangs 49-29
• The Griffons' offensive rebounding advantage was 26-8
• Southwest Minnesota State did not attempt a three-pointer
• MWSU got 33 points from its bench compared to 23 for Southwest Minnesota
• Missouri Western forced 27 turnovers, with 16 steals

 
LEADERS

• Erin Anderson shot 45 percent from the field and led MWSU with 16 points, seven rebounds and four assists
• Melia Richardson led the team with four steals and scored 10 points for the Griffons
• Brittany Atkins scored 12 points on 4-of-10 shooting from the field

 
UP NEXT
The Griffons stay in Fayette, Iowa at the NSIC/MIAA Tournament to take on host-Upper Iowa on Saturday at 5 p.m.