EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. - The big winner Tuesday night at First Community Arena was Redefining Independence.

SIUE and Saint Louis women's basketball met for an exhibition and charity contest. Redefining Independence is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing opportunities for adults with outstanding abilities. Saint Louis won the contest 76-67.

The Cougars picked up double-digit scoring performances from Halle Smith, Meegan Fahy and Ava Gugliuzza. The trio finished with 10 points each.

Peyton Kennedy led the SLU offense with 30 points. SLU is coming off a victory in the WNIT last season.

SIUE held an 18-16 lead after one period of play, but Saint Louis grabbed a 39-27 lead by halftime. The Cougar offense exploded in the third period and cut the lead to 61-55. The Billikens held off the Cougars for a nine-point advantage.