Along with scoring 100 points for the first time since 1983, the Salukis had three players in double figures in a tight conference opener.

SIU (3-9) started Missouri Valley Conference play right with a 100-96 win over the Bradley University Braves (3-9) in a game that featured more than 175 shots taken from the field.

Senior center Dyana Pierre led the Salukis with 33 points and 18 rebounds. It was Pierre’s sixth double-double in 12 games this season.

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Pierre said she can attribute her solid game to doing what she can to make the team better.

“I’m just trying to play hard and help my team out,” Pierre said.

Sophomore forward Azia Washington had 16 points and 10 rebounds in the first half and finished with 27 points and 15 boards. Senior guard Sidney Goins found her rhythm from long-range, Goins was 6-of-14 from the 3-point line for 18 points.

Coach Cindy Stein said her team showed a lot of effort and toughness in the win against the Braves but they didn’t do everything correct.

“It wasn’t picture perfect,” Stein said.

The Salukis will attempt to ride this momentum Saturday when they welcome MVC newcomer Loyola University at 2:05 p.m. at SIU Arena. Loyola is coached by former WNBA superstar Sheryl Swoopes.

Tyler Dixon can be reached at [email protected] or @tdixon_de on Twitter. 

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