TIGERBALL UNABLE TO STOP SAINT FRANCIS IN 80-71 SETBACK

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – Olivet Nazarene University's (ONU) women's basketball team fell short in a hard-fought battle against the University of Saint Francis, losing 80-71 on the road Wednesday night. Despite an energetic effort, especially in the first half, the Tigers couldn't maintain their momentum and now sit at 0-3 to start the season.

In the first quarter, ONU started strong with a shooting percentage of 41.2% from the field. Brooklyn Marshall was efficient early, hitting 5 of her 9 attempts and finishing the game with 11 points and 5 rebounds. Olivia Dirkse also made her presence felt, contributing 12 points on 4-of-11 shooting, along with 5 rebounds. Despite their efforts, Olivet trailed 22-17 at the end of the first quarter, as Saint Francis capitalized on turnovers to build a slight edge.

The Tigers picked up momentum in the second quarter, improving their shooting to 53.8% and sinking 50% of their three-point attempts. Khendel Rolison played a key role, scoring 13 points on 3-of-10 shooting, with 4 of 4 made from the free-throw line. Rolison also led Olivet in rebounds, pulling down 7 boards and adding 2 assists. Preslee Michael hit 3 of her 7 shots, including 2 of 6 from beyond the arc, to finish with 8 points, helping keep the game close. Olivet went into halftime trailing by just four points, 42-38, showing resilience against a challenging opponent.

After halftime, ONU faced challenges as their shooting cooled down to 29.4% in the third quarter. The team struggled to maintain the same offensive flow, allowing Saint Francis to widen their lead. Rolison worked hard on both ends, grabbing rebounds and drawing fouls, but ONU's shooting woes and turnovers hindered their efforts to close the gap. The Tigers went into the final quarter needing a strong push to turn things around.

In the fourth quarter, ONU's struggles continued, shooting just 31.8% from the field and 18.2% from beyond the arc. The team made a late push, with players like Michael adding valuable points and defensive stops. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough, as Saint Francis managed to hold off ONU's attempts at a comeback and secured the win.

Looking Ahead

ONU will return home to face Taylor University on Saturday, November 9, at 1:00 p.m. CST. The Tigers will look to build on the positives from this game and aim for a bounce-back performance in front of their home crowd.

--ONU—

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