SHREVEPORT, La. – Hardin-Simmons' women's basketball team opened the Kendra Hassell era with an 83-53 win over Centenary on Saturday afternoon in Shreveport.

Junior guard Taylor Gaffney hit a 3-pointer on the opening possession and the Cowgirls never trailed in the game. The Cowgirls led 18-16 after the first quarter. The Cowgirls closed the first half on a 6-0 run and took a 34-25 lead into halftime.

In the third quarter the Cowgirls led 44-34 with 2:32 to play in the quarter but closed the quarter on a 9-2 run to push the lead out to 53-36.

HSU outscored the Ladies 30-17 in the fourth quarter to take the win in decisive fashion.

Gaffney led a balanced attack for the Cowgirls with 17 points. Kaitlyn Ellis had 12 points and eight rebounds, A'Breanna Harrison had 12 points in her Cowgirl debut, sophomore forward Karlea Ritchie had a double-double with 11 points and 12 rebounds and freshman Conley Niblett had 11 points in her debut.

The Cowgirls dominated on the glass leading 55-40. HSU also forced 30 turnovers. Darelzray Bellard had 13 points to pace Centenary.

HSU will return to action Monday at 5 p.m. at Arlington Baptist.

--- www.hsuathletics.com ---