GLENDALE, Ariz. — Olivet Nazarene (IL) (9-5) fell to Rocky Mountain (8-4), 89-86, in a closely contested matchup at the ACU Events Center. The Tigers managed 16 three-pointers but could not overcome Rocky Mountain's 46 rebounds.

Olivet Nazarene began the first quarter by keeping pace with Rocky Mountain, as Lindsey Nell hit a jumper at 8:57 to tie the score at 2-2. Although the Tigers managed to close the gap several times, including a three-pointer by Jayden Flagg at 3:30 that brought them within five, Rocky Mountain maintained a slight edge throughout. Olivet Nazarene's efforts, highlighted by Elisabeth Good's three-pointer at 2:15, brought them to within a point late in the quarter. Despite these efforts, the Tigers trailed 25-18 at the end of the first.

The Tigers made an early push in the second quarter, highlighted by Flagg's back-to-back 3-pointers that closed the gap to one point at 9:04. Despite their efforts, Rocky Mountain maintained a lead, bolstered by Brenna Linse's scoring in the paint. Caroline Sikkink contributed significantly with a jumper and two free throws, keeping Olivet Nazarene within striking distance. However, Rocky Mountain extended its advantage to a 12-point lead late in the quarter. The period ended with Rocky Mountain leading 55-46.

Olivet Nazarene shifted momentum with a crucial sequence midway through the quarter, highlighted by a 3-pointer from Preslee Michael at 5:06, which cut the deficit to one point. Good's layup at 4:48 briefly gave the Tigers the lead at 61-60. Despite a strong effort, including steals by Good and Flagg, the Tigers were unable to maintain their edge as Rocky Mountain responded and closed out the quarter with a 71-65 victory.

The Tigers started the fourth quarter with a strong run, tying the game at 71 with a 3-pointer from Mya Skelton at 9:18, assisted by Sikkink. Despite Olivet's early momentum, Rocky Mountain responded and took a six-point lead at 3:29. The Tigers fought back with a 3-pointer from Flagg at 1:29, leveling the score at 84. However, Rocky Mountain managed to edge ahead in the final minute, and sealed the victory with free throws, ending the game at 89–86.

Nell led the team with 18 points, hitting six of 14 shots and adding four rebounds. Flagg scored 19 points and made five 3-pointers, also contributing four assists and two steals. Brooklyn Marshall recorded two steals and six points, while Calee Biedron added four steals and four assists.

The Tigers stand at 9-5 overall following their recent game. Rocky Mountain holds an 8-4 record after the latest matchup.

–ONU–