Westminster Cruises Past MacMurray on Senior Day

Seniors Bailey Mitchell, Assistant Coach Kristen Warncke, and Andrea Zalis
Seniors Bailey Mitchell, Assistant Coach Kristen Warncke, and Andrea Zalis

FUTLON, Mo. - Westminster women's basketball cruised its way to an 82-44 victory over SLIAC opponent MacMurray while honoring seniors Bailey Mitchell, Andrea Zalis, and Kristen Warncke.

"I really appreciate our seniors, for all they've given to our program," said Westminster Head Coach Tracey Braden. 

Westminster improves to 8-12 overall and 6-6 in the SLIAC. 

The Blue Jays got out to a fast start, beginning the game on a 16-0 run and not allowing the Highlanders to score until the 2:58 mark of the first quarter.

"I liked our start to the game and how we pushed the ball consistently in transition," saud Braden. 

From there, MacMurray went on an 8-2 run to remain in the game after 10 minutes. 

"We've been talking about focused energy and how productive teams make playing with intensity a priority," said Braden. "Today, I believe we did that." 

Westminster posted its highest scoring effort of the game by adding 23 points in the second quarter, including nine from Zalis. 

Mikalyn Callahan took over in the third quarter, scoring eight of her career-high 12 points. 

"Our post play overall is giving us a punch on the offensive end," said Braden. "Mikakyn has come on strong and is giving us good minutes." 

Zalis hit-back-to-back three-pointers in the fourth quarter to add to her total. She led all scorers with 25 points on 8-16 shooting and 5-9 from behind the arc. 

"We shot the ball well, which always helps the energy level, but we also played much better on the defensive end," said Braden. 

The Blue Jays continue conference play with a home game Monday against Eureka at 3 p.m.