Drovers Defeat Langston in Regular Season Finale

CHICKASHA, Okla. – Saturday afternoon, the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (19-9, 15-7 SAC) concluded the regular season with an impressive 83-73 victory against Langston University (22-6, 17-5 SAC). 

The Drovers quickly jumped out front and held a 19-9 lead after 10 minutes of action. The Lions began to turn things around in the second quarter, outscoring the Drovers 16-13, but USAO was able to remain in control with a 32-25 lead at the break. 

Following halftime, USAO's offense was red-hot, outscoring Langston 29-15 in the third quarter and the Drovers took a 61-40 lead into the fourth. However, the Lions caught fire in the fourth and outscored the Drovers 33-22 in the final 10 minutes of action. Fortunately, USAO had built up a large enough lead to withstand the LU rally.

USAO's offense closed the game shooting 24-58 (.414) from the field, 7-21 (.333) from beyond the arc, and a very impressive 28-32 (.875) from the free-throw line. In comparison, LU shot 27-80 (.338) from the field, 8-27 (.296) from deep, and 11-14 (.786) from the charity stripe. 

The Drovers won the rebounding battle 53-38, but the Lions outscored USAO in the paint 30-24.

USAO committed 18 turnovers, which led to 14 points for Langston. Meanwhile, the Lions fumbled the ball 10 times, resulting in 11 points for USAO. The Drovers were whistled for 17 fouls, while the Lions were called for 23 violations.

The Drovers used a well-balanced attack to take down the Lions, with all eight players scoring at least four points each.

Crystal Ortiz recorded her fourth double-double of the season, while Lainey Morrow produced her 13^thdouble-double. Ortiz concluded with 23 points on 9-13 shooting from the field, along with 12 rebounds. Morrow finished with 15 points and 15 rebounds.

Diaka Berete contributed 16 points, five rebounds, and four assists. Jordan Bloomfield added nine points and four rebounds, while Devynn Harris closed with six points and three rebounds. Tonijah Fortune scored five points and dished out six assists, while Trinitee Alexader scored points and grabbed two rebounds. Brayanna Polk scored four points in the win.

WHAT'S NEXT?

The Drovers will now head into the postseason as the No. 5 seed in the Sooner Athletic Conference Tournament and will make the short trip to Oklahoma City for the quarterfinals at No. 4 Mid-America Christian University. Tip-off is scheduled for 6:00 PM CT.

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