SEARCY – The Harding women's basketball team opened their season with a win, Saturday as they defeated Christian Brothers 73-50 in non-conference action at the Rhodes Field House. It was the third straight year, the Lady Bisons have won their season opener.

Sophomore guard Shana Holmes tied a career-high with 17 points to lead Harding. Holmes went 4-of-7 from the field, including two 3-pointers. She also hit 7-of-8 free throws.

Junior forward Kristen Celsor had 14 points. Sophomore guard Montana Lewis had 11 points and sophomore forward Arielle Saunders had 10 points.

Harding outrebounded Christian Brothers 49-27. HU grabbed 16 offensive boards in the game, turning them into 19 points. Arielle Saunders led the Lady Bisons on the boards with a game-high seven rebounds. Montana Lewis also grabbed six.

After shooting 51-9 percent from the field in the first half (14-of-27), the Lady Bisons shot 43.6 percent for the game (24-of-55).

Christian Brothers (0-1) was led by sophomore guard Breanna Ridgell who had 21 points, including three 3-pointers. Senior guard Candis Clear also had 11 points.

Harding (1-0) had seven steals and three blocks. The Lady Bisons also forced 13 turnovers.

Harding forced Christian Brothers to shooting 17.9 percent in the first half (5-of-28).

Four players made their Harding debut in the game – junior guard Lauren Crenshaw, freshman guard Kaylee Wiedower, freshman forward Anna Strickland and freshman guard Amelia Bramer.

The Lady Bisons will be back in action next Thursday as they travel to Central Missouri for a 7 p.m., tip-off.