DIRKSE SCORES HER 1000TH POINT AS THE TIGERS STAY HOT IN CCAC PLAY

BOURBONNAIS, Ill. — Olivet Nazarene (IL) (13-5, 9-1) defeated Indiana University Northwest (5-14, 4-7), 111-69, at McHie Arena, leveraging 25 steals to secure the decisive victory.

The Tigers opened the first quarter with a strong offensive performance, highlighted by Mya Skelton's three 3-pointers, which set the tone early. The team capitalized on turnovers and controlled the paint, scoring 10 points inside. They built a commanding lead, ending the quarter ahead 33–16 over the RedHawks.

Olivet seized control in the second quarter with a strong defensive effort, forcing numerous turnovers and capitalizing on fast-break opportunities. Jayden Flagg's layup at 1:45 extended their lead to 27 points, marking the largest margin of the game at that point. Brooklyn Marshall contributed with a series of impactful plays, including a layup at 6:29 and a block at 3:19, helping maintain the momentum. The half ended with a score of 60–33 in favor of the Tigers.

Olivet surged ahead in the third quarter. Lindsey Nell sparked the offense with a layup at 6:03, contributing to the 29-point lead. The team maintained their momentum with effective ball movement and defensive pressure, tallying seven steals without committing any turnovers in the quarter. By the end of the third, Olivet held a commanding 84–56 lead over the Redhawks.

The Tigers dominated the final quarter, extending their lead to its largest margin of 44 points. Skelton initiated the fourth quarter surge with a 3-pointer at 9:37, assisted by Marshall. They capitalized on free throw opportunities, converting 14 of 16 attempts, which maintained their scoring advantage throughout the quarter. The game concluded with Olivet securing a decisive victory, finishing with a 111–69 win.

Marshall led the team with 20 points, converting 8 of 12 shots and adding seven rebounds. In her first action of the season Dirkse scored 16 points, which put her over 1000 for her career! Flagg contributed 15 points, hitting 6 of 8 baskets, including three from beyond the arc, and recorded two assists. Skelton continued her hot streak scoring 16 points.

The Tigers stand at 13–5 overall and 9–1 in conference play after their latest victory. Indiana Northwest's record is now 5–14 overall and 4–7 in conference competition.