DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Daniella Hatcher scored 15 points as Bethune-Cookman downed Edward Waters 79-46 in its 2019-20 season opener Thursday night in Moore Gymnasium.

Tatum Hayes added 14 and Ashlie Howell 10 as the defending Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference tournament champions scored the first seven points en route to a 25-15 first quarter lead.

Hayes and fellow freshman Morgan Beacham combined for three three-pointers in the second quarter as the Lady Wildcats built their lead to 47-20.

Hatcher, who sat out last season, connected on all six field goal and three free throw attempts. Ashlie Howell, another red shirt, rounded out BCU's double figure scorers with 10 points.

Senior Armani Walker's nine points and six rebounds paced the returners.  In her first game back after missing all but two games last season due to injury, Ashanti Hunt had six points in 10 minutes.

Beacham and Amaya Scott each added eight points, while junior college transfer Ciara Thompson led the Lady Wildcats with seven rebounds.

Mia Leite led Edward Waters (7-1) with a game-high 26.

BCU travels to Florida International next Tuesday.