IRVING, Texas – The Celts of the University of St. Thomas opened Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference play Friday with a 67-51 win at the University of Dallas.​

UST's Sheridan Hopkins (Galveston, Texas / Ball HS) scored 18 points and pulled in eight rebounds to lead the Celts (6-2, 1-0 SCAC); she also took four steals in the game.

Aerial Starks (Houston, Texas / A&M Consolidated HS) added 13 points for the Celts. Olivia Anga (Rosharon, Texas / St. Agnes Academy) finished a rebound shy of a double-double, as she came off the bench to score 11 points and pull in nine caroms.

The Celts took control of the game with seven unanswered points to open the second period, giving the visitors a 21-10 lead. A similar start to third period regained a double-digit lead for the Celts which they would not relinquish.

UST outrebounded Dallas 41-34, and held a 17-6 advantage in offensive rebounds. The Celts turned that advantage into 17 second-chance points.

The Celts conclude the weekend Saturday when they visit Austin College. Tipoff is scheduled for 6 p.m.