JOLIET, Ill. — Olivet Nazarene (IL) (16-9, 12-5) narrowly fell to St. Francis (IL) (18-6, 13-4) with a final score of 77-74 in OT on Wednesday at the Pat Sullivan Center. The Tigers led by as much as eight points early in the second half, but were unable to hold off the Saints.

Olivet started the first half with strong offensive plays, highlighted by Eli Edwards scoring a dunk assisted by Andrew Bennett just 36 seconds into the game. They built an early advantage, leading by as much as six points at 17:47. The team effectively maintained possession and capitalized on turnovers, with Edwards contributing on both ends of the court, securing rebounds and making key shots. By the end of the half, the Tigers led St. Francis (IL) 38-32.

The Tigers made a strong start to the second half, extending their lead to 8 points with Edwards' jumper at 19:32. However, the Saints quickly countered, eventually taking the lead midway through the half. Despite St. Francis building a 7-point advantage by 8:20, the Tigers rallied back, with Keagen Holder's crucial 3-pointer tying the game at 66–66 with just two seconds remaining, sending the game into overtime.

The Tigers battled to stay in the game during the extra period, taking a brief lead at 1:21 with a layup by Dylan Fey, assisted by Edwards. Despite tying the score at 72 with Holder's pair of free throws at 2:01, the Saints regained the advantage. Olivet's efforts were hindered by a missed three-pointer in the final seconds, allowing St. Francis to secure the victory 77–74 in OT.

Holder scored 25 points, including three 3-pointers, and added six rebounds. Edwards posted 21 points, connecting on nine field goals, and recorded seven boards. Bennett contributed 11 points and dished out three assists. Fey finished with nine points and collected eight rebounds.

The Tigers have a record of 16-9, including 12-5 in conference play. The Saints hold a record of 18-6, with a 13-4 mark in conference competition.