TIGERS DROP SEASON OPENER AGAINST BETHANY

BOURBONNAIS, IL. – On Saturday, Olivet Nazarene University's women's basketball team found themselves on the wrong side of a 90-83 scoreline against Bethany University at McHie Arena.

The game got off to a sluggish start, with the Tigers managing to put up only 37 points in the first half. Despite the slow beginning, ONU displayed impressive shooting statistics throughout the match, boasting a solid 40% field goal rate and a matching 40% rate for three-pointers. It was clear that the team was determined to make their mark on the court. 

Senior guards Olivia Demosthenes and Bett O'Neal, played pivotal roles in keeping the Tigers within striking distance. 

As the second half kicked off, the Tigers were unwavering in their pursuit of victory. Forward sophomore Brooklyn Marshall led the charge with an immediate layup, narrowing the gap to just one point behind their opponents. The dedication and hard work of senior guards Anne Peters and Jamie Finn were evident as they also contributed to the team's relentless effort to keep the game alive.

ONU managed to hold on as they entered the fourth quarter, and they made some crucial points from jump shots. However, Bethany capitalized on multiple free throw attempts, gradually widening the gap and putting the game beyond the Tigers' reach. 

Bethany shot at a remarkable 56.9% from the field, while ONU maintained a respectable 40.8%. The Sneeds also held a significant advantage in three-point shooting, with a 35.3% success rate compared to the Tigers' 24.2%. Additionally, Bethany outshone ONU in free throws, boasting a 78.3% free throw percentage compared to ONU's 60.7%.

What's Next?

Despite the setback, ONU is eager to bounce back and is eagerly anticipating their next game. ONU is set to face Indiana University East at McHie Arena on Nov. 1st at 5:30 p.m. CST.

--ONU—

*Contact Anyssa Hampton, Sports Information Graduate Assistant, ahampton@olivet.edu