The Mohawks rallied from a 17-7 deficit, boosting their record to 3-0.
“We handled our composure,” Madison coach John Rossi said. “They like running and jumping and double-teaming, but we made a couple adjustments and were able to attack the basket.”
Meghan Miller, Olivia Philpot and Josey Harding all scored 10 points for the Mohawks, who sank 24-of-28 free throws and shot 51.9 percent from the floor. Michelle Brunswick chipped in nine points.
Shields grabbed nine rebounds and Harding snagged eight for Madison, which returns to action at home against Northridge on Saturday. Jerger added five assists.
Ashtyn Payne scored 16 points for the Thunderbolts (0-1).
St. Bernard 45, Middletown Christian 36: Rachel Spahr collected 20 points, seven rebounds and four steals for the host Eagles, who dropped their season opener and the debut of head coach Wendy Ivey.