Daytona Beach, Fla. – The Central Methodist Women's Basketball team opened play at the Daytona Beach Shootout with an 81-74 victory over Kansas Wesleyan Wednesday afternoon in Daytona Beach, Florida.

With the win, the Eagles improve to 8-5 on the season, while the Coyotes fall to 6-6.

Central Methodist faced an early deficit, trailing 24-17 after the opening quarter, but responded with a strong second period to take a narrow 39-38 advantage into halftime. The two teams traded baskets throughout the third quarter, leaving the Eagles clinging to a one-point lead heading into the final frame.

CMU took control in the fourth quarter, outscoring Kansas Wesleyan 27-21. The Eagles delivered on both ends of the floor down the stretch, combining efficient offense with defensive stops to secure the seven-point win.

Kaitlyn Patke led all scorers with 21 points, shooting an efficient eight-of-14 from the field. Freshman Tayla Robinson followed with 16 points on five-of-eight shooting and a perfect six-for-six performance from the free-throw line, while also adding three rebounds.

Trishelle Porter provided a spark off the bench, knocking down five three-pointers on her way to 15 points. Kaelyn Johnson rounded out Central's double-figure scorers with 14 points, leading the team with five rebounds and adding two steals. Asnate Gerke made contributed defensively, recording four steals.

As a team, Central Methodist took care of the basketball, committing just 10 turnovers compared to 17 by Kansas Wesleyan.

The Eagles will conclude the tournament Thursday, December 18, with a 12:00 p.m. CST matchup against Georgetown in Daytona Beach.

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