The Central Bible University women's basketball team opened its 2026-27 season in convincing fashion Tuesday evening, defeating Union Adventist University, 66-37, at Pelfrey Hall. The Saints used a dominant first quarter and a strong defensive performance to secure their first victory of the season.

Central Bible (1-0) wasted little time taking control, outscoring Union Adventist 26-6 in the opening quarter. The Saints continued to build their advantage in the second period, holding the Warriors to just five points to carry a commanding 39-11 lead into halftime.

The Saints' defense set the tone throughout the first half, limiting Union Adventist to just 20 percent shooting from the field while forcing the visitors into numerous turnovers. Central Bible maintained a comfortable advantage throughout the second half, eventually securing the 29-point victory despite a stronger offensive showing from the Warriors in the final quarter.

HJ Fender led a balanced Saints offense with a game-high 16 points, connecting on six field goals while adding five rebounds and four assists. Sara Shoemaker recorded a double-double with 14 points and a game-high 10 rebounds, including seven offensive boards. Shoemaker was also a perfect 6-for-6 from the free-throw line.

Savanna Woods and Leyla Taylor each contributed 12 points in the victory. Woods made her presence felt on both ends of the floor, collecting seven rebounds and a game-high seven steals while connecting on two three-pointers. Taylor added six rebounds, three assists and four steals, while KK Smith chipped in six points and seven rebounds.

Defensively, the Saints forced 26 Union Adventist turnovers and recorded 16 steals. Central Bible also held the Warriors to just 23.1 percent shooting from the field and 23.5 percent from beyond the arc.

The Saints held a narrow 43-41 advantage on the glass, including 20 offensive rebounds, while converting 18 of their 25 free-throw attempts. Central Bible finished with 10 assists and committed just 16 turnovers.

Union Adventist (0-3) was led by Michelle M. with nine points and 11 rebounds, while Kassie A. added eight points and seven rebounds.

The CBU women are off for six days until they head to Springdale, Ark., on Monday, Nov. 16, to take on Ecclesia College at 5 p.m.