Drovers Struggle in Season Finale at #24 MACU

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – Thursday night, the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (16-13, 14-10 SAC) began postseason play with a disappointing 87-57 loss in the SAC Tournament quarterfinals at No. 24 ranked Mid-America Christian University (24-5, 19-5 SAC). 

Thursday's game began with both teams trading baskets for the opening quarter and MACU held a slim 19-18 advantage going into the second quarter.

However, MACU thoroughly dominated the second quarter, outscoring USAO 22-6 and took a comfortable 41-24 lead into halftime.  

Following the break, the teams exchanged points for most of the third quarter, but the Evangels ultimately outscored the Drovers 26-19 to command a 67-43 lead going into the final 10 minutes of action.

USAO's struggles continued in the fourth quarter, getting outscored 0-0 in the final period. 

USAO's offense closed the game shooting 21-60 (.350) from the field, 7-23 (.304) from beyond the arc, and 8-13 (.615) from the free-throw line. In comparison, MACU shot 31-61 (.508) from the field, 8-22 (.364) from deep, and 17-24 (.708) from the charity stripe. 

The Drovers scored 22 points in the paint and hauled in 33 rebounds. In comparison, the Evangels scored 38 points in the paint and grabbed 38 rebounds. 

USAO committed 18 turnovers, which led to 26 points for MACU. Meanwhile, the Evangels fumbled the ball 10 times, resulting in five points for the Drovers.

USAO was whistled for 22 fouls, while MACU was called for 14 violations.

WHAT'S NEXT?

The Drovers will now prepare for the 2025-26 season, slated to begin in late October. 

Stay up to date on all USAO Athletics news by following us on our media platforms!

Athletics Website: www.usaoathletics.com

Live-stream: www.sacsportsnetwork.com/usao

YouTube: Drover Athletics

X: @DroverAthletics

Facebook: @DroverAthletics

Instagram: @drover_athletics

GIPHY: www.giphy.com/USAODrovers