CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. - Despite shooting nearly 62 percent in the first half and better than 95 percent from the free throw line for the game, the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville women's basketball team lost to Division I Southeast Missouri State 86-71 in an exhibition game Friday night.
         SIUE's Ruth Kipping (Quincy) led all scorers with 29 points on 11-of-17 shooting. She also was 7 of 7 from the free throw line. Jessica Robert (Carlyle) pumped in 15 points and Amanda Buldtman (Metropolis) added 10.
         The Cougars formally open the 2001-2002 season next Saturday at the Central Missouri State Tournament in Warrensburg, Mo. The Cougars play host Central Missouri in a 7:30 p.m. contest. After facing CMSU, the Cougars will take on either Drury or Fort Hays State on Sunday.
         Lori Chase led the Otahkians with 17 points on Friday. Tisa Thomas and Veronica Benson both added 12 points. SEMO dominated the boards, outrebounding the Cougars 38-24.
                  -siue-