Concordia opened up their NSIC home schedule with a decisive 85-56 win over visiting Southwest Minnesota State in action at the Gangelhoff Center Friday night.

Four Golden Bears were in double figures in scoring, led by Desirae Jones with 16 points. Jones hit a season-high five three-pointers, going 5 for 8 from behind the arc and also added two assists and two steals.

Kayla Christensen helped with 15 points, 8 rebounds, two assists, two steals, and two blocked shots. Jennifer Pozzani went 5 of 9 from the floor, scored 14 points, and had four steals. Ashley Smith added 10 points on 3 of 4 shooting, and Heidi Gill chipped in with 9 points and 8 rebounds. As a team, Concordia had a season-high 7 blocked shots.

The Bears and Mustangs went back and forth in the first half, with SMSU taking an 18-12 lead with 9:07 left in the half. The Bears then rallied for 11 straight points, took a 23-18 lead, and headed into the locker room with a 32-27 lead.

Concordia broke out of the second half with a 9-1 run in the first 2:17, giving them a comfortable 13-point lead at 41-28. The Golden Bears never looked back, as they shot an impressive 63.3% in the second half and ended the game making 51.8 % while holding the Mustangs to 33.3% for the game.

The Bears return to action Saturday night at the Gangelhoff Center when they host Wayne State. Tip-off is set for 6:00 p.m.