PELLA— A 28-13 advantage after the first quarter put the wheels in motion for the Central College women's basketball team's 72-52 victory over Crown University (Minn.) Friday night in its season opener.
           
Four 3-point baskets in the first quarter from Abbey Bence (junior, Burlington, West Burlington HS) ignited the Dutch offense. She finished with a career-high 19 points.

"That was a pretty awesome game from Abbey," coach Justin Weiland said. 
           
Jasmyn Williams (senior, Commerce City, Colo., Arvada West HS) stuffed the stat sheet with 10 points, eight rebounds and four assists. Emily Naughton (junior, Indianola) had a team-high nine rebounds
           
Central made 12 3-pinters with Bence responsible for five of them and Jadyn Filling (senior, Ankeny) making three.

"It wasn't always the prettiest tonight," Weiland said. "But Crown is a very much improved team."
           
The Dutch only attempted 12 free throws but made 10. Williams was 4-4 from the stripe.
           
Central plays Saturday at 2 p.m. against the University of Northwestern – St. Paul (Minn.).