BOURBONNAIS, Ill. — Olivet Nazarene University (7-2, 4-0) secured an 85-74 victory over Saint Xavier University (4-7, 2-2) on Saturday at McHie Arena. The Tigers capitalized on their free throw opportunities, going 21-of-26 from the line, to help overturn a three-point halftime deficit.

The game began with Olivet taking an early lead through Andrew Bennett's three-pointer at 18:41, establishing a 5-point advantage. Despite strong contributions from Bennett, who added another three-pointer and assisted an Eli Edwards' layup, the Cougars responded, taking control midway through the half, leading by as much as 8 points late in the half. Olivet closed the gap with Mason Wood's layup at 0:12, but a late jumper by Jordan Streeter allowed the Cougars to hold a narrow 43-40 lead at the end of the first half.

The Tigers took control in the second half with a series of key plays, opening with a layup by Dylan Fey at 18:53, assisted by Edwards, and followed by Bennett's jumper at 18:19. They continued to assert their presence with a crucial 3-pointer by Fey at 15:00, which gave Olivet their first lead of the second half. The Cougars managed to stay close, tying the game at 68 with six minutes remaining, but Olivet responded with a 3-pointer from Bennett at 2:24 and maintained the advantage with Edwards' layup at 0:47. The half ended with the Tigers securing a 85–74 win.

Bennett led the effort with 29 points, connecting on six 3-pointers and making a perfect 7 of 7 from the free-throw line. Edwards contributed 25 points and added eight rebounds, while also converting 7 of 10 free throws. Fey recorded a double-double, scoring 18 points and collecting 10 rebounds. Wood added defensive strength with two steals and scored 11 points.

Olivet improved to 7-2 overall and 4-0 in conference play with the victory. Saint Xavier is now 4-7 overall and 2-2 in conference competition.

The Tigers return home next Saturday, Dec. 13 for their final game in McHie Arena until January. They face St. Francis (Ill.) for a 3 p.m. tip-off. 

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