DENVER – The Celts of the University of St. Thomas used two big quarters Friday to pull away from Johnson & Wales (Colo.) with an 84-48 win.

Sheridan Hopkins (Galveston, Texas / Ball) scored a game-high 18 points and freshman Hayden Morin (Humble, Texas / Atascocita) poured in 16 points while shooting 5-for-5 from 3-point range to lead the Celts to victory.

With the win, the Celts (13-4) improved to 8-2 in Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference play. Johnson & Wales (2-13) saw its conference record drop to 2-8.

After ending the first period with a 16-13 lead, the Celts pulled away in the second quarter by outscoring the Wildcats 30-10, taking a 46-23 lead into halftime. A 21-point third quarter gave the Celts a 67-31 lead after 30 minutes of play.

Every player got into the game for the Celts scored at least two points. Bresha Orange (Longview, Texas / Panola College) scored 13 points for the Celts, while Olivia Anga (Rosharon, Texas / St. Agnes Academy) chipped in 10 points.

The Celts conclude their weekend trip to the mountains Saturday when they visit Colorado College. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. CST (6 p.m. local time).