ST. LOUIS, Mo. -- The start was a bit sluggish for the UMSL Tritons (2-1) at Saturday's matinee at Chuck Smith Court.

But a 20-3 run in the second quarter gave the Tritons all the momentum they needed as they defeated Kentucky Wesleyan (2-2) 73-58 at the UMSL home opener.

Freshman Mallory Ronshausen missed her first two 3-point attempts, and then rattled off seven in a row to finish 7-for-9 from beyond the arc.

"My teammates were looking for me, which, obviously, just boosts my confidence and my shot," Ronshausen said. "I felt like we were getting solid team shots, and everything wasn't forced. We were just driving and kicking, getting the best shot. That really helped me."

The scouting report, Ronshausen said, had a lot to do with the defensive effort, actually.

"We really focused on their transition game, getting back on defense," Ronshausen said. "Basically, that we can attack off them, ball reversals, and quick scoring in the middle third."

The Panthers exhibited a higher level of energy in the opening quarter, which teams try to do on the road.

And while it allowed them to take the 21-14 lead, UMSL head coach Katie Vaughn made the necessary adjustments for the second quarter and beyond.

In the second half, the Tritons authored a 39-34 point differential, and combined with the second-quarter landslide, the Tritons headed for the winner's circle.

While scoring illuminates any box score, the court vision and collective passing that whipped around the perimeter and in and out of the paiint should not go unnoticed.

Four, sometimes five passes were utilized, and the individual and collective patience grew with each possession.

Of course, finally being able to showcase their game at home helps.

"It took me a little bit to learn that quick shots right off the bat, and the shot clock, can lead to easy transition points for the other team," Ronshausen said. "Letting the ball work around and then once it hits 10 seconds [shot clock], to look for my shot. Other than that, my teammates, we look for each other. It was so nice, our home gym, where we practice. We are used to the rims."

The Tritons have a few days off from game action prior to hosting Trevecca Nazarene at 12 p.m.Wednesday.