NACOGDOCHES, Texas—Stephen F. Austin came out with the lead early and kept the momentum going as the Ladyjacks stopped the South Dakota women's basketball team 77-55 inside WRJ Coliseum Saturday.

"This afternoon we faced a very well coached Stephen F. Austin team in a tough environment," head coach Dawn Plitzuweit said. "We have to play better and more consistently going forward. Knowing our team, I know that we will have the correct mindset as we stay on the road in Texas and prepare for another tough game on Monday night."
 
Stephen F. Austin (6-1) went on an 11-1 run over the final 2:26 of the first quarter to gain some cushion against South Dakota (4-4). From there, the Ladyjacks carried their momentum into the second quarter, not allowing USD to attempt a comeback.   
 
Sophomore guard Madison McKeever recorded a team-high 11 points on 3-of-6 shooting from the field and tied her career high with four steals. Senior center Kate Liveringhouse and freshman guard Monica Arens tallied 10 points apiece. This is Monica Arens' third-straight game in double digits.
 
The Ladyjacks had five players with double-digit points. Forward Stevi Parker scored a game-high 16 points, 10 rebounds and five assists for Stephen F. Austin. Guard Riley Harvey chipped in 13 points and guard Chanell Hayes added 12 more. Guards Taylor Jackson and Alyssa Mayfield each tallied 10 points.
 
South Dakota outscored Stephen F. Austin in the paint 22-18, but the Ladyjacks forced the Coyotes to 26 turnovers leading to SFA 28 points.
 
South Dakota continues its travels in the lone star state as the Coyotes head to San Antonio, Texas, to face Incarnate Word at 6 p.m. CT Monday, Dec. 4.