An 18-point lead should have been an insurance lead for the Ohio women's basketball team. But the Bobcats, who tend to keep their fans on the edge of their seats, let their guard and the lead slip, leading to an exciting final 44 seconds in the game.
The Bobcats did keep their composure, winning the game by a small margin, 73-69. Ohio (8-10 overall, 4-3 Mid-American Conference), with the win against Buffalo (3-15, 1-6 MAC), broke its two-game losing streak and bettered its conference record to above .500.
The first half we played perfect defense
and the second half we let our guard down coach Lynn Bria said. We made plays at the end of the game got a charge called and hit some big free throws to win. We did what we had to do down the stretch to win.
During the beginning of the game baskets were made back and forth between the teams, tying the score 6-6, the only time the score would be even during the game.
Ohio then took control going on a 15-8 run and gaining a 21-14 lead. The Bobcats would not allow the Bulls to take the lead the rest of the game.
After a 9-4 run to open the second half, Buffalo began its comeback as the Bulls made three 3-pointers bringing the score to 67-57 with seven minutes left to play. Buffalo shots continued to fall as the team made three 3-pointers to close the lead and with 44.4 seconds left, it was a three-point game, 69-66.
Fouls by Buffalo players brought guard Angel Hornsburger and forward Erin Isbell to the line, who made three-of-four and one-of-two free throws, respectively. Buffalo was able to make one more 3-pointer, but the Bobcats' free throws stifled any hope the Bulls had.
We hit some big shots during the game
but we let down defensively
guard Ciara Iglehart said. We let them hit some shots
but we did well down the stretch.
Iglehart led the Bobcats with a game-and career-high 16 points. Forward Kristian Kirkpatrick also chipped in 16 while Isbell added a season-high 15 and eight rebounds.
We played more together this game but we are still going to get better
Isbell said.
Ohio will be back in action for a mid-week game against MAC opponent Western Michigan on Wednesday. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. in The Convo.
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Abbey Smith
