BOURBONNAIS, Ill. — Olivet Nazarene University (17-5, 13-1) defeated Judson University (7-14, 4-11), on senior day 97-66, fueled by 27 steals and 40 points off turnovers.
The game began with the Tigers establishing control early, capitalizing on turnovers and executing a strong defensive effort. Lindsey Nell ignited their offensive momentum with a steal and layup at 7:42. Ava Mikesell's three-pointer with 29 seconds left in the quarter capped a dominant performance. The Tigers led 30–7 at the end of the first quarter.
The Tigers maintained a strong lead in the second quarter, highlighted by Jayden Flagg's early 3-pointer assisted by Nell at 9:38, which extended their advantage to 26 points. Despite a scoring push from the Eagles, including a layup by Easton Kimball at 2:53, the Tigers sustained their 20-point lead throughout most of the quarter, despite losing the quarter, the Tigers led at halftime 43-21.
The Tigers surged in the third quarter, extending their lead with a balanced offensive effort. The team executed a strong 18-7 run early on, marked by key contributions from Caroline Sikkink and Preslee Michael, who both delivered crucial buckets. They capitalized on turnovers and maintained defensive pressure, ending the period with a 32-point contribution to their tally. The third quarter ended with the Tigers leading 75-46.
Olivet extended their lead with a strong performance in the fourth quarter, highlighted by senior Kalli Papenfuss, who scored a layup and a 3-pointer, contributing to a 16-point run. Brooklyn Marshall added to the momentum with a layup at 7:43, maintaining their advantage. Despite Judson's attempts to close the gap, the Tigers' press remained effective, with Mikesell sealing the quarter with a 3-pointer with 22 seconds remaining. The Tigers finished the game with a decisive 97-66 victory.
Buzzard scored 13 points, including three 3-pointers, and added five rebounds. Nell tallied 15 points while converting three shots from beyond the arc and collected four steals. Sikkink contributed with 12 points, four steals, and five assists. Michael finished with 11 points and led the defense with five steals.
The Tigers stand at 17-5 overall and 13-1 in conference play. Judson holds a 7-14 overall record with a 4-11 mark in conference competition.