TIGERS SECURE HIGH-SCORING WIN OVER CORNERSTONE

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Olivet Nazarene (IL) (2-1, 0-0) defeated Cornerstone (MI) (1-2, 0-0) 100-96 in a high-scoring contest at Mol Arena. The Tigers recorded 10 steals and scored 52 points in the paint to secure the victory.

Mason Wood led the team with 21 points, converting four 3-pointers and collecting six rebounds. Eli Edwards added 18 points, shooting 7-for-11 from the field and making all four of his free throw attempts. Dylan Fey contributed 11 points, including three 3-pointers, and gathered six rebounds. Keagen Holder recorded eight assists and two steals, while also scoring six points.

The Tigers improved to 2-1 overall following their victory. The Golden Eagles now stand at 1-2 overall.

Olivet Nazarene opened the first half facing an early deficit as Cornerstone jumped to a nine-point lead at 18:31. However, the Tigers responded with critical plays from Edwards and Holder, who combined efforts to narrow the gap. Edwards' scoring was pivotal, contributing a layup and free throws that helped bring the Tigers within four points.

Despite Olivet Nazarene's efforts, Cornerstone maintained a slight edge throughout the half, boosted by timely 3-pointers. Wood's successful 3-point shots at 6:01 and 4:38 were crucial in keeping the visitors close. As the half concluded, the Tigers trailed by four points, ending the first half with a score of 45-41 in favor of the Golden Eagles.

Olivet Nazarene made a significant push in the second half, overcoming a 10-point deficit early at 17:23. Fey played a pivotal role by hitting a crucial 3-pointer at 8:56, which gave the Tigers their first lead of the half. The team maintained their momentum with Edwards scoring consistently in the paint. Cornerstone managed to keep the game close, tying at 94 with 53 seconds remaining. However, Wood's 3-pointer at 38 seconds and Caleb Corro's subsequent free throw extended the lead. The half concluded with the Tigers on top, securing a 100–96 victory.

—ONU—

*Contact: Annabel Murley, Sports Information Graduate Assistant, almurley@olivet.edu