The No. 23 Wildcats opened their 2015-16 season with two home wins, defeating Midland University on Friday, 85-77 in overtime, and Grace University on Saturday, 85-31.

In the overtime matchup against Midland, Baker’s defense was key in capturing the win. Both teams shot just over 40 percent from the field; however, the ‘Cats had 15 steals and 16 turnovers to Midland’s three steals and 26 turnovers.

Caitlin Modesett led Baker with 22 points, including four three-pointers. Ericka Simpson followed with 20 points, Jami Hodge with 15 and Kelsey Larson with 13. Simpson also had four assists. Courtney Hoag had six rebounds for the Wildcats.

The ‘Cats dominated Grace University in the second game of the season. After the first quarter, Baker led 25-5.

Baker outrebounded the Royals 50 to 30, and had only eight turnovers to Grace’s 24. Taylor Chase came off the bench to lead with nine rebounds. Jami Hodge had four steals for the Wildcats.

Macy Wallisch put up 14 points for the ‘Cats and had eight rebounds. Jessica Zweifel and Kenzie Cook came off the bench to score 14 and 10 points, respectively. Zweifel knocked down four of Baker’s 10 three-pointers.

Last season the Wildcats ended up 21-10 overall and 13-5 in conference play. The ‘Cats also made their second consecutive appearance in the national tournament. In the 2013-14 season, the ‘Cats made it to the second round, but last season they were knocked out in the first round of the tournament.

Following their appearance in the national tournament, the Wildcats were ranked 23 in the NAIA during the preseason. The ‘Cats were also ranked third in the Heart of America Athletic Conference behind Benedictine and Mid-America Nazarene.

The ‘Cats will travel to Ottawa to take on the Braves at 3 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13. Ottawa is 0-2 to start its season.