EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. – Sofie Lowis led the Cougars with 16 points and freshman Ava Stoller grabbed 10 rebounds as SIUE ran past Maryville, 85-66 on Thursday night at First Community Arena.

"I'm proud of our response from the beginning of the game," Head Coach Samantha Quigley Smith said. "We didn't start great; maybe some nerves involved with a handful of student-athletes taking the floor for the first time. We had some great contributions all the way around and that's going to be the type of team we have this year."

SIUE combined to shoot 50 percent (35-70) overall and 35.7 (5-14) from three-point territory.

Six student-athletes took the floor for the first time wearing the red and white: Stoller, Ava Gugliuzza, Lezhauria Williams, Brianna Wooldridge, Halle Smith, and Alexis Legan.

"Their experience in practice and playing against male practice players helped prepare them for what's to come," added Smith. "Our group was prepared for this type of action. Maryville is a good team and the rest of the GLVC should watch out for them. They brought physicality which will prepare us for Oklahoma State."

Preseason All-OVC selection KK Rodriguez wrapped the game with 12 points while leading the Cougars with five assists and three steals. Gugliuzza, Wooldridge, Molly Sheehan, and Olivia Clayton contributed nine points apiece.

"In an exhibition contest, we're looking for the ability to execute and to play against someone other than yourself," said Smith. "You want to see some confidence out of your players, while at the same time being challenged."

SIUE scored 52 of its 85 points in the paint while forcing 18 turnovers.

Maryville's scoring was led by Haidyn Pitsch's 16 points.

SIUE opens the regular season Monday with a trip to Stillwater, Oklahoma for a road contest at Oklahoma State. Tipoff is scheduled for 5:00 p.m.

Stay connected with the Cougars all season long by following @SIUEWBB on X, @SIUEWBB on Instagram, and SIUE Women's Basketball on Facebook.