LAWTON, Okla. – Frances King and Shawnisay Millar set or matched career highs combining 40 points in the season opener Friday night at Aggie Gym.
 
But it was the grit of Haevyn Risley and a great third quarter defensive effort which led Midwestern State to a 78-71 win over Cameron.
 
"The girls just got down and played defense. We knew they had some firepower. They didn't hit 3-pointers and we know they can hit them," MSU coach Christopher Reay said. "We'll have to be ready for that tomorrow. All I can think about is Coach J with us."
 
The Mustangs and Aggies square off again Saturday afternoon. Tip time is set for 3 p.m.
 
Risley grabbed eight of her 14 rebounds in the decisive third period as the Mustangs limited Cameron to 1-of-16 shooting in the stanza allowing MSU to construct a commanding 18-point lead.
 
The Canadian High grad connected on 4-of-7 shots from the field and hit both of her free throws to complete her first collegiate double-double with 10 points.
 
"Haevyn played a monster game. She's been trying to find her confidence in the exhibition games," Reay said. "Tonight, it was at her level and she excelled. I am super proud of her."
 
King carried offensive load in the opening half scoring 17 of her team-high 23 points. The sophomore guard connected on 9-of-13 shots from the field and was a perfect 5-of-5 from the charity stripe. King dished out six of the seven assists credited to the Mustangs.
 
"Her command of our offense has been tremendous," Reay said.  "We are able to run our entire offense through her and she's able to score at a high level."
 
Junior Shawnisay Millar continued her stellar play from the preseason scoring 17 points with six rebounds, while senior Kityana Diaz chipped in 10.
 
Junior guard Maighan Hedge took 21 shots to score 23 points to lead the Aggies.
 
Midwestern State claimed its first season opening victory since starting the 2016-17 with two wins.