Alexandria, La. - The Central Methodist women's basketball program began its national tournament run with a convincing 79-61 win over Freed-Hardeman Friday afternoon in Alexandria, La. 

The Eagles dropped 49 first half points on the Lions, and entered the halftime break with a 17-point advantage. Central's offense was slowed in the third quarter, scoring only seven points in the frame. However, CMU responded with 23 points in the fourth to earn an 18-point victory. 

Leianya Massenat led Central's offense with 21 points on eight-of-13 shooting from the field and four-of-five from the charity stripe. Senior guard Arleighshya McElroy wasn't far behind, as the native of Dallas, Texas stuffed the stat sheet with 19 points, six rebounds, three assists, three steals, and one block. 

Eternati Willock tallied a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds. In addition, Willock added four assists, four blocks, and three steals. Daryna Bachkarova was the final Eagle to land in double figures, scoring 10 points including two three-point baskets. 

Freshman forward Leah Johnson had a productive afternoon off the bench, scoring eight points and grabbing five rebounds in only 17 minutes of action. 

Collectively, CMU shot 46.8-percent from the floor and 88.9-percent from the free throw line. Central's defense also forced 20 Lions' turnovers on 13 steals. However, Freed-Hardeman just edged the Eagles on the glass, 38-37. 

CMU will next square off against Talledega College Saturday, March 12 at 3:00 p.m. in the Opening Round Championship game. The winner will advance to the Final Site next week in Sioux City, Iowa. 

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