FORT SMITH, Ark. -- Northwestern Oklahoma State secured a thrilling 68-65 double-overtime victory over Oklahoma Baptist in a hard-fought Great American Conference (GAC) Tournament matchup on March 7. The game featured eight lead changes and five ties, with both teams battling through an intense defensive contest.
The Rangers (15-14, 11-11 GAC) came out strong in the first, taking a 19-14 lead behind efficient shooting. However, both teams struggled offensively in the second period, with Northwestern managing just nine points to Oklahoma Baptist's six, resulting in a low-scoring 28-20 advantage at halftime.
In the second half, Oklahoma Baptist (20-9, 16-6 GAC) found a little better rhythm. In the third quarter, they outscored the Lady Rangers 14-11 to cut the deficit to five, 39-34. In the fourth, the Bison rallied, using a 14-point quarter to force overtime at 48-48, capped by a clutch three-pointer from
Mackenzie Crusoe in the final seconds.
Of note, the Bison held a three-point lead with 12 seconds left, however, Carly Craig drained a three-pointer that eventually led to overtime.
The first overtime was a back-and-forth affair, with Northwestern taking a brief lead behind a three-pointer from Payton Jones, only for Oklahoma Baptist to respond.
Jill Leslie's crucial free throws, three straight, with 22 seconds left tied the game at 57-57, forcing a second overtime.
In the final stanza, Northwestern's depth proved the difference. Craig hit a pivotal three-pointer, and Jaida Shipp provided a strong presence in the paint, finishing with 17 points. The Rangers capitalized on their opportunities at the free-throw line, with Camille Thomas sinking key shots down the stretch to extend the lead to 68-65.
Jones led Northwestern with 19 points and nine rebounds, while Craig contributed 14 points and 10 boards. Kira Bass added a near double-double with 10 points and nine rebounds. Oklahoma Baptist was paced by Crusoe's 17 points, with Leslie and
Jaedyn Getman chipping in 15 each.
By game's end, the Bison had made just five of its 32 three-point shots, a 15.2 percent mark. That was the second-lowest percentage of the year for the green and gold.
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