The Missouri women’s basketball team started the 2025-26 season with a 78-71 win over Central Arkansas, marking head coach Kellie Harper’s first victory.

the Tigers outlasted Arkansas on Monday night at Mizzou Arena, grinding out a win in their season opener despite an injury-depleted rotation and streaky shooting.

The Tigers played without their starting guard Averi Kroenke, who Harper confirmed will miss the season with a lower-body injury.

Post player Hannah Linthacum, and veteran guard Saniah Tyler also remained sidelined, forcing Missouri into a nine-woman rotation and shifting players into new roles.

Behind a record-setting night at the free-throw line from junior guard Shannon Dowell
Dowell finished with 21 points and 12 rebounds, but her impact was felt most in the paint. Her 23 free-throw attempts were the most in program history, reflecting both her speed in transition and her physicality attacking the rim, two traits coach Kellie Harper emphasized throughout preseason practices.

Sophomore Chloe Sotell provided a spark off the bench with eight points, including a pair of 3-pointers that gave the Tigers breathing room before halftime.

Jordana Reisma contributed a double-double with 12 points and 13 rebounds

Grace Slaughter added 12 points and eight rebounds

Jayla Smith responded with nine points, including a key layup in the closing seconds