TIGERS FORCE 18 STEALS IN 88-69 WIN OVER HOLY CROSS

NOTRE DAME, Ind. — Olivet Nazarene (IL) (10-5, 6-1) defeated Holy Cross (8-7, 4-3), 88-69, capitalizing on 18 steals and converting them into 31 points off turnovers. The Tigers maintained control throughout the game, achieving a largest lead of 22 points in the fourth quarter.

Olivet Nazarene started the first quarter with strong defensive pressure, converting multiple turnovers into scoring opportunities. Caroline Sikkink opened the scoring with two free throws, later adding a 3-pointer at 2:54 to extend a lead that reached 16-6. Calee Biedron contributed significantly with key baskets, keeping the momentum in favor of the visitors. The Tigers concluded the quarter leading 20-13.

Olivet Nazarene gained momentum in the second quarter with a decisive sequence, expanding their lead to 11 points following Mya Skelton's jumper at 5:44, which was assisted by Kalli Papenfuss. Despite a challenge from the Saints, who managed to close the gap with a series of free throws and a 3-pointer by Allie Caldwell, the Tigers maintained control. The quarter ended with Olivet Nazarene leading 42-32, setting a solid foundation going into the next half.

The Tigers extended their lead significantly in the third quarter, highlighted by a strong start where Lindsey Nell sank a 3-pointer at 9:26, assisted by Skelton, and followed with a jumper at 8:47. Brooklyn Marshall contributed with a jumper at 7:10, and later assisted Preslee Michael at 3:08, pushing the lead further. Despite Holy Cross's efforts, including a brief 6-0 run, Olivet Nazarene maintained control, culminating in a jumper by Nell with just eight seconds remaining. The quarter concluded with the Tigers leading 66-50, setting a formidable margin going into the final quarter.

Olivet Nazarene maintained a dominant performance in the fourth quarter, highlighted by an impressive 22-point lead with 3:21 remaining. Sikkink was instrumental, contributing crucial points including a jumper that increased the lead to 81-59. Despite the Saints' efforts to close the gap with free throws and a couple of baskets, the Tigers' consistent scoring, including a late jumper by Biedron, secured their victory. The game concluded with Olivet Nazarene defeating Holy Cross, 88-69.

Sikkink led with 28 points, making 11 of 18 field goals and adding three steals. Nell contributed with 12 points and collected five rebounds. Marshall also added 12 points, hitting 4 of 6 shots and securing six rebounds. Biedron scored 12 points and recorded three steals.

The Tigers hold a record of 10-5 overall and 6-1 in conference play. Holy Cross now stands at 8-7 overall and 4-3 in conference competition.

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