NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Kentucky Wesleyan College women's basketball team put on a display to open the season against Rockhurst. Nearly eight months after their last game the Panthers show little signs of rust while showcasing a complete team effort. Wesleyan shot 58% from the floor in a dominating 97-49 performance against the Hawks. Kaylee Clifford missed one shot on the day as she finished with 14 points.
 
A year ago, at the Pops Duncan Classic, the Panthers fell by 38 points to No. 9 Drury. This go around the Panthers (1-0) opened the season with a 48-point victory. Wesleyan spread the floor offensively forcing the Hawks (0-1) to chase throughout the contest. After taking an 10-8 early lead the Panthers closed out the first quarter with a 13-4 run.
 
The rally continued into the second half as the Panthers scored the first 15 points of the frame. Clifford capped off the 28-4 run with a three-point basket. Wesleyan was equally impressive on the defensive end as the Hawks were held to eight points in the second quarter. Clifford finished with 11 points in the first 20 minutes as the Panthers took a 55-20 lead at the break.
 
The Hawks were first-hand witnesses to an abundance of contested shots while shooting 30% from the floor. Rockhurst also committed 15 turnovers on the day. The Panthers scored 28 points off the Hawks miscues.
 
The depth of the Panthers continued to show in the second half as there was not an inch of let-up. After three quarters Wesleyan held a 40-point advantage, 78-38. The steady rotation of players coming on to the floor maintained a torrid pace to the end of the game.
 
The Panthers converted on 17 of 27 three-point shots as Clifford was four for four from the perimeter. She also pulled in six rebounds. Keelie Lamb showcased a complete effort on the day as she recorded nine points, five assists, two rebounds, one block, and one steal. Lily Skye Grimes added 12 points, five rebounds, five assists, and three steals. Cali Nolot also finished in double figures as she recorded 10 points.
 
The Pops Duncan Class continues on Saturday as the Panthers will return to Nashville to play another Great Lakes Valley foe, Missouri S&T.  Tip-off on the campus of Trevecca Nazarene is scheduled for 1:45PM.