BOURBONNAIS, Ill. — Olivet Nazarene (IL) (24-6) defeated Governors State (19-11), 82-68, in the CCAC Semifinals at McHie Arena.

The game started with a back and forth first quarter. The Tigers were led by Calee Biedron and Lindsey Nell as they were both instrumental in sparking an early lead. Grace Bush also contributed early with a big 3pt basket with 6:40 left in the quarter. The fast paced quarter ultimately ended with the Tigers leading 27-22.

Olivet initially widened its lead with a pivotal 3-pointer from Preslee Michael at 6:25, helping the team to a nine-point advantage. The Jaguars responded with a series of successful plays, narrowing the gap and eventually taking a slim lead. In a tightly contested finish, the Tigers briefly regained the lead with Nell's free throws at 0:49, but ultimately, the Jaguars edged ahead in the final moments. The half concluded with the Jaguars holding a narrow 43–42 lead.

Olivet surged in the third quarter with a decisive 17-point contribution from turnovers, highlighted by clutch back-to-back three's by Nell and Elisabeth Good that reclaimed the lead. The Tiger's press was relentless forcing the Jaguars' to 13 turnovers and holding them to 9 points in the quarter. The quarter ended with a crucial tip-in from Brooklyn Marshall at the buzzer giving the Tigers a 14 point lead heading into the fourth.

Olivet maintained a strong lead throughout the fourth quarter, solidifying its advantage with effective free-throw shooting. Caroline Sikkink's free throws at 9:09 expanded the lead to 16 points, marking the largest margin of the game. Despite the Jaguars' efforts to close the gap, they were unable to overcome the deficit. The Tigers capitalized on free throws, ultimately matching the Jaguars' 16 points for the quarter and securing an 82–68 victory.

Nell recorded 20 points, converting 9 of 9 free throws and adding six steals. Calee Biedron contributed 19 points, shooting 7 of 9 from the free-throw line and collecting two steals. Brooklyn Marshall finished with eight points and six rebounds, including three steals. Michael added 10 points and recorded five rebounds, while making two 3-pointers.

The Tigers advance to the Championship to take on the #3 seed IU South Bend Titans on Saturday at 1:00pm in McHie Arena.