The Panthers took on the Hesston Larks in the home opener on Tuesday night with a 98-53 win. Neosho never trailed in the game, and the team impressed with its sharp shooting and size advantage. The Panthers shot 46% from the field and used its forwards' size to overpower Hesston on the boards.

The starters were sophomore guard Chrissy Brown, sophomore guard Jessica Jones, sophomore guard Morgan Bolen, sophomore forward Haley Stiger,  and sophomore forward Ashley Dillinger. The starting lineup got the Panthers off to a 15-8 lead and was effective in forcing turnovers by Hesston. 

Neosho went 12 for 33 from three-point range, and Hesston had no answer for Neosho Panther guard Jessica Jones going 5 for 9 from beyond the arc. Neosho outrebounded Hesston 51-43, led by Brown's 10 rebounds. Neosho forced Hesston into 31 turnovers for the night. 

Jessica Jones led the team with 19 points and 2 steals. Sophomore Chrissy Brown had a double double with 15 points, 10 rebounds and 2 steals. Haley Stiger chipped in 13 points, 9 rebounds and 2 steals.

The Panthers lost much of their scoring last year, a eight-player freshman class has alleviated those concerns. All eight freshmen made their debut on their home floor tonight, all contributing to the 98 points that were put on the board by Panthers. 

Neosho hosts Connors State on Tuesday November 12th at 5:30 PM.