BOURBONNAIS, Ill. — Olivet Nazarene (IL) (11-4, 7-0) secured a 82-77 victory over St. Ambrose (IA) (5-10, 2-5) on Wednesday night at McHie Arena. The Tigers capitalized on their 21 assists and a strong defensive effort with seven steals to maintain their unbeaten conference record.

Olivet Nazarene opened the first half with an assertive offensive performance, establishing an early lead through effective scoring in the paint and maintaining it throughout. Key plays included Keagen Holder's layup at 19:48 and Eli Edwards' layup at 18:30, assisted by Holder, contributing to the team's dominance inside. Despite St. Ambrose briefly narrowing the margin to a tie or a small lead, the Tigers regained control late in the half. Andrew Bennett's 3-pointer at 00:48, assisted by Holder, and Mason Wood's 3-pointer at 00:02, assisted by Edwards, helped secure a 34–29 advantage for Olivet Nazarene at the end of the first half.

In the second half, Olivet Nazarene capitalized on a series of key plays by Edwards, who contributed multiple scores including a three-pointer at 6:38, to maintain their advantage. Dylan Fey supported with timely free throws and a critical layup in the final seconds. Despite a strong showing from the Fighting Bees, including a late three-pointer by Nolan Deitrich, the Tigers held firm to conclude the half tied 48–48, securing an 82–77 victory.

Edwards led the team with 34 points, converting 14 of 19 field goal attempts and collecting 11 rebounds. Wood added 14 points and recorded five rebounds. Bennett contributed with 11 points, including three 3-pointers, and five assists. Holder finished with eight points and six assists, while Jonny Dickson made an impact defensively with two steals.

Olivet Nazarene sits at 11-4 overall and 7-0 in conference play following their victory. St. Ambrose holds a 5-10 overall record with a 2-5 mark in conference competition.

–ONU–