The Missouri women opened 2005 with a 67-50 win over in-state rival St. Louis U. The Billikens cut the Missouri lead to six points several times in the second half, but did not score over the final four minutes, allowing Missouri to pull away. Junior LaToya Bond led Mizzou with 17 points. Christelle N’Garsanet and Carlynn Savant each scored 16 for the Tigers, who improved to 6-5 on the season. Mia Johnson scored 13 points for SLU, which fell to 1-12 on the season. Missouri opens Big 12 play at home Wednesday against Oklahoma State. St. Louis begins Conference USA action Friday at Charlotte.