FLAGG PROVIDES SPARK AS TIGERS TAKE DOWN SOUTH BEND

BOURBONNAIS, Ill. – A big night from Jayden Flagg helped fuel Olivet Nazarene to another strong conference win on Wednesday. The freshman provided a spark off the bench, knocking down five three-pointers as the Tigers used efficient shooting and defensive intensity to secure a 91-74 victory over Indiana University South Bend inside McHie Arena. 

ONU set the tone early, opening with a strong offensive performance to take a 26-17 lead after the first 10 minutes. The Tigers were sharp from beyond the arc, knocking down eight three-pointers, including two from Flagg off the bench. The defensive pressure also forced South Bend into costly turnovers, leading to transition opportunities for the home team. 

The Titans found a rhythm in the second frame, matching ONU nearly shot for shot. Bett O'Neal provided a lift from deep, hitting three triples in the quarter to pace the Tigers. Khendel Rolison, who finished with eight points, five assists, and two rebounds, helped ONU maintain control despite a slower offensive stretch. The Tigers entered halftime with a 41-35 lead.

After the break, ONU reasserted itself, outscoring South Bend 23-21 in the third quarter. Flagg added another three, while O'Neal chipped in four points and a rebound. Brooklyn Marshall, who ended the night with nine points and four boards, provided key minutes inside. ONU's defense played a crucial role, finishing the game with 33 points off turnovers. The Tigers carried a 64-56 lead into the final quarter. 

ONU closed out the game with its strongest offensive quarter, putting up 27 points in the final 10 minutes. Flagg remained perfect from beyond the arc, hitting two more threes to finish with 15 points, while O'Neal capped her night with 13 points and a rebound. The Tigers saw key contributions across the lineup, with their bench accounting for 44 points. Olivia Dirkse added nine points and two rebounds as ONU shot 44.4% in the fourth quarter, holding South Bend to 18 points and sealing the win.

Looking Ahead

ONU will close out its regular season schedule on Feb. 22nd, with a conference matchup against Calumet College of St. Joseph at 1:00 p.m. CST. The Tigers will honor their seniors before tip-off at McHie Arena.

--ONU—

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