Quiet bark, weaker bite.

The Wichita State women’s basketball team defeated the Southern Illinois Salukis 80-61 Sunday afternoon.

The Shockers built their lead early, starting the game on a 16-5 run.

The Salukis had five turnovers in the first five minutes that gave the Shockers easy lay-ups.

WSU cruised. Senior forward Kelsey Jacobs had nine of her team-leading 17 in the first half.

SIU responded and midway through the half, they reduced the lead to within 10. Saluki center Dyana Pierre scored eight of her game-high 21 points.

The Shockers didn’t allow them to inch closer and closed the half leading 43-29.

Starting the second half, WSU’s offense slowed.

The Salukis inched back into the game, and again closed the lead to seven. The score was 59-52.  

But senior guard Alex Harden forced turnovers and WSU pulled away. They finished the game on a 21-8 run.

The Shockers are now 16-3 overall and 7-0 in the Missouri Valley Conference.

Wichita State Head Coach Jody Adams said she was pleased with a win but wants her team to have a more “consistent game.”

“My expectations for this team and where we are … as the coach you are looking down the line,” Adams said. “I am asking these guys to play perfect rounds.”

The women have the week off, but have a two-game roadtrip this weekend.

Friday they play at Northern Iowa and Sunday is at Drake.