(FULTON, Mo., Nov. 3)--The16th-ranked William Woods University women's basketball team had to come from behind in its 2010-11 season opener Wednesday night. The Owls defeated visiting Benedictine College (Kan.) 64-61.

William Woods cruised into halftime with a 37-25 lead over the Ravens. The Owls shot 50% from the floor and held BC to just 32% shooting.

Benedictine turned up the defensive pressure and started draining three-pointers to start the second half. Benedictine outscored William Woods 23-11 in the first 10 minutes to tie the game at 48.

The Ravens didn't stop there. BC continued the hot shooting and took a 58-51 lead with just under six minutes remaining.

The Owls clawed their way back into the contest. Senior Jestine Gerber (Jefferson City, Mo.) hit a three-pointer with just under four minutes remaining to cut the lead to 59-57. The Owls then tied the game at 59 off an inbound steal from senior Rachel Baker (Mexico, Mo.). Baker hit junior Sharron Andrews (Oakland/Hayward, Calif.) for an easy lay-up.

WWU regained the lead with 1:57 remaining on another drive and lay-up from Andrews. She scored again on another steal and assist from Baker with 1:44 remaining to push the lead to three points.

BC had one final chance to send the game into overtime. Kelsey Wolfe attempted a three-pointer as time expired. Her shot was partly blocked by senior Jill Sutton (Warrenton, Mo.) and the Owls escaped with a 64-61 victory.

Andrews led the Owls with 15 points and seven steals. The WWU point guard did not commit a turnover on the night. Baker added 12 points, nine rebounds, five blocked shots and three steals.

William Woods will return to action on November 5 and 6. The Owls will compete in the Central Methodist University Classic in Fayette, Mo. The Owls play Culver-Stockton at 5:30 pm on Friday, and host CMU at 3 pm on Saturday.