ST. CHARLES, Mo. — The Ottawa University women's basketball team fell to Lindenwood University, 71–36, inside Robert F. Hyland Arena on Monday afternoon. Despite an early competitive start, Lindenwood used depth, pressure defense, and a strong second-half surge to pull away from the Braves in the exhibition match up.
First Quarter
Ottawa traded baskets early and kept pace with the Lions through the opening minutes.
Aaliyah Brown opened the scoring for the Braves, and
Dominique Schutte knocked down a three-pointer midway through the quarter to briefly give Ottawa the lead. Lindenwood closed the period on a late run, highlighted by back-to-back three-pointers in the final minute, to take a 19–11 advantage after one.
Second Quarter
Lindenwood extended its lead in the second frame, capitalizing on turnovers and converting from the perimeter. Ottawa found points from
McKinley Kruger at the free-throw line and Schutte, who hit a three late in the quarter. Despite defensive effort, the Braves were unable to cut into the deficit as Lindenwood entered halftime leading 33–22.
Third Quarter
The Lions took control coming out of the break, opening the half with an extended scoring run. Lindenwood connected on multiple three-pointers and controlled the glass, stretching the margin to nearly 30 points by the end of the quarter. Ottawa struggled offensively against Lindenwood's pressure defense, trailing 53–24 heading into the final period.
Fourth Quarter
Ottawa continued to battle in the closing quarter, with Kruger scoring inside and
Grace McPhail knocking down a three-pointer. However, Lindenwood's depth continued to show, as the Lions maintained their tempo and closed out the game with consistent scoring to secure the 71–36 final.
By the Numbers
- Ottawa shot 24.5 percent (12-of-49) from the field and went a perfect 6-of-6 from the free-throw line.
- Lindenwood finished at 36.5 percent shooting and went 24-of-31 from the line.
- Lindenwood held a rebounding advantage, 44–29, and forced 25 Ottawa turnovers.
Individual Leaders
- Ottawa: McKinley Kruger led the Braves with eight points.
- Lindenwood: Alyssa Nielsen scored a game-high 14 points, while Nielsen and Valerie Norwood each grabbed seven rebounds.
Who is Next
Ottawa (8-4) returns to the court on Tuesday, Dec. 30 in St. Louis, Mo. against Missouri Baptist University. Game time is set for 12:00 p.m.
