GSU SURGE SINKS TIGERBALL AT HOME

BOURBONNAIS, IL. – On Saturday, Olivet Nazarene University women's basketball team fell at home to Governors State University, 75-66. 

The game kicked off with a display of offensive firepower from both sides, with neither team able to establish a clear advantage. The score went back-and-forth, with ONU staying close behind the Jags throughout the period. A late surge from the Tigers saw them close the gap to just one point with a series of well-executed plays. However, the Jaguars responded swiftly, ensuring the game remained deadlocked at 19-19 as the first quarter drew to a close. 

The second quarter started with a more defensive-minded approach from both teams. Points were hard to come by, and neither side could build significant momentum. However, as the clock ticked down, the Jaguars unleashed a decisive 16-2 run, pulling ahead by a comfortable 15 points. ONU managed to add eight more points before the buzzer, but the deficit heading into halftime was a concerning 11 points, 42-31. 

The third quarter saw both teams trading baskets, with the Tigers refusing to back down despite the Jaguars' attempts to extend their lead. ONU fought valiantly, but GSU managed to maintain their double-digit advantage, entering the final quarter with a commanding 62-47 lead.

The final period was a desperate fight for the Tigers. They poured on the offensive pressure, chipping away at the GSU lead point by point. Grace Schutt's clutch three-pointer brought ONU within ten points with time winding down. But the Jags had the last say, nailing six unanswered points to maintain their cushion. ONU didn't give up without a fight, scoring the final seven points of the game, but it wasn't enough to overcome the deficit. The final buzzer sounded, sealing ONU's fate with a heartbreaking 75-66 loss.

What's Next

While the loss to GSU was disappointing, the Tigers don't have time to dwell on it. They'll quickly shift their focus to their next matchup, a crucial road game against Holy Cross College on Feb. 14th. Tip-off is slated for 4:30 p.m. CST.

--ONU—

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