USAO Falls Short in High-Scoring Battle Against Nelson University

CHICKASHA, Okla. – Monday night, the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (6-9, 4-7 SAC) battled hard but was dealt a 98-86 loss against Nelson University (10-5, 8-3 SAC). 

Monday's contest was fast paced and both offenses found success early and often. The Drovers took an early lead, prior to the Lions catching fire. Nelson held a 28-22 advantage midway through the first half, prior to taking a 50-39 lead into halftime.

In the opening half, both offenses thrived, with Nelson shooting a blistering 21-35 (.600) from the field and 4-11 (.364) from deep, meanwhile USAO shot 14-30 (.467) from the field and 6-19 (.316) from three-point range. 

Following the break, the Drovers did their best to keep the game within reach and eventually trimmed their deficit to only six points (76-70), but the Lions were able to weather the storm and regained some separation down the stretch. Nelson narrowly outscored USAO 48-47 in the second half, but it was too little, too late for the Drovers.

USAO's offense closed the game shooting 31-64 (.484) from the field, 11-33 (.333) from beyond the arc, and 13-18 (.722) from the free-throw line. In comparison, Nelson University shot 40-69 (.580) from the field, 6-19 (.316) from deep, and 12-15 (.800) from the charity stripe. 

The Drovers scored 32 points in the paint and hauled in 33 rebounds. In comparison, the Lions scored 52 points in the paint and grabbed 35 rebounds. 

USAO committed 12 turnovers, which led to 21 points for NU. Meanwhile, the Lions fumbled the ball only five times, resulting in eight points for the Drovers.

USAO was whistled for 12 fouls, while Nelson was called for 18 violations.

Four different Drovers scored in double-figures, led by Mohand Ammad with 17 points and four rebounds. Ryein Kennedy tallied 15 points and eight rebounds, followed by Lendy Holmes with 14 points and six rebounds. Cade Allen provided 13 points and a trio of steals on defense. 

Tre Edwards recorded nine points and five assists off the bench. Zach Hays scored six points, trailed by Tyler Cauley with five points and two assists. 

Jaden Harrell contributed three points, five rebounds, four assists, and a pair of steals. Tatum Ridge and Chok Garang each added two points. 

WHAT'S NEXT?

The Drovers will return to Brisco McPherson Court on Thursday, January 9 as they host a double-header against Central Christian College. The women's game is scheduled to tip-off at 6:00 PM CT, followed by the men's game at 7:45 PM CT inside Drover Fieldhouse. 

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