BROWNWOOD, TEXAS – McMurry University didn't waste any time establishing a comfortable cushion Saturday, Dec. 10.

The War Hawks, evening their 2022-23 American Southwest Conference record at 2-2, rocketed to a 34-9 lead at Howard Payne University's Brownwood Coliseum. Despite a strong comeback attempt by the host YellowJackets, which trimmed the deficit to as little as 11 in the second half, the Maroon, White, and Black kept their hosts at bay in an 81-58 triumph.

Head coach Drew Long's team was balanced in reaching its eighth victory in only ten contests played. Sophomore guard Emily Holland (Mansfield, Texas) continued her impressive campaign, posting 17 points, including a perfect eight-of-eight effort at the free throw line. Senior guard Taya Bridges finished with 14 points, five rebounds, and five assists, and freshman guard Kylie Flippin (Wichita Falls, Texas) was the third starter with ten or more points, ending with 12. McMurry's bench also played an integral role. Senior guard Jada Morris (Forney, Texas) topped the reserves' 36-point outing with her second straight double-digit finish, a career personal single-game high 13 points. Freshman guard Helana Chadwick resumed her solid first-year collegiate resume, winding up with 10 points.

McMurry (8-2 overall, 2-2 ASC) is back at home at Kimbrell Arena Thursday, Dec. 15. Game time against the University of Ozarks is 5:30 p.m.