KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Ottawa University women's basketball team dropped a heartbreaker on Wednesday night, as Avila University scored with one second remaining to edge the Braves 68–67 at Mabee Fieldhouse.

First Quarter
Ottawa jumped out early behind back-to-back three-pointers from Dominique Schutte and McKinley Kruger to take a 6–0 lead in the opening two minutes. Clare Williams added a strong presence in the paint as the Braves built their largest lead of the game at six. Avila responded with consistent inside scoring from Madilyn Melton and Marlie Wright, closing the quarter on a 7–2 run to take a 23–22 advantage after one.

Second Quarter
The Eagles pushed their lead to as many as nine midway through the second quarter, fueled by a pair of three-pointers from Wright. Ottawa answered at the free-throw line, where the Braves were a perfect 18-of-20 on the night. Ashlynn Arnsman and Molly Martin combined for key points down the stretch, and Arnsman's bucket in the final minute tied the game at 32–32 heading into halftime.

Third Quarter
The third quarter featured six lead changes as both teams traded baskets. Hailey Rademan hit a timely three to give Ottawa a brief edge, while Kruger knocked down free throws to keep the Braves close. A late bucket from Kaelynn Duncan gave Ottawa a 51–50 lead heading into the final period.

Fourth Quarter
Ottawa maintained momentum early in the fourth, stretching its lead to five behind scores from Aaliyah Brown and Kruger. Avila countered with steady play from Wright and Melton to tie the game multiple times in the closing minutes. With five seconds left, Clare Williams converted a layup to put Ottawa ahead 67–66. Avila quickly answered, as Melton finished in the paint with one second remaining to seal the 68–67 decision.

By the Numbers
McKinley Kruger led Ottawa with 17 points, while Clare Williams added 13 points. Ashlynn Arnsman chipped in 12 points off the bench. Aaliyah Brown paced the Braves on the glass with seven rebounds, and Hailey Rademan dished out five assists. Ottawa shot 40.0 percent from the field and 90.0 percent from the free-throw line, but Avila's 50.0 percent shooting proved to be the difference.

Who is Next
Ottawa (8-7, 3-6) returns to the court on Saturday, Jan. 10 in Wilson Field House against Tabor College. Game time is set for 2:00 p.m.