LA CROSSE, Wis. – Olivet Nazarene University’s (ONU) women’s basketball team dominated Viterbo University 119-69 on Saturday afternoon in a conference road game. The Tigers’ offensive firepower was on full display as they saw seven players reach double figures, continuing their strong play with efficient shooting and a balanced attack that overwhelmed the V-Hawks.
The Tigers started strong in the first quarter, building a 30-13 lead. Khendel Rolison led the way early, scoring 9 points, including a pair of threes. Olivia Dirkse added 7 points in the opening period, including a three-pointer, while Preslee Michael and Molli Ward each contributed 3 points. Despite Viterbo shooting 42.9% from the field, ONU’s defense kept them contained, and the Tigers capitalized on their opportunities, shooting 43.5% from the field in the first quarter.
In the second quarter, ONU extended their lead, outscoring Viterbo 40-12. Dirkse and Brooklyn Marshall were key contributors, each scoring 8 points in the period for a combined 16 points. Kalli Papenfuss also got into the action, adding 2 points. The Tigers shot a scorching 75% from the field and 50% from beyond the arc, and their ball movement and fast breaks were relentless. Heading into halftime, ONU had a commanding 70-25 lead, having forced Viterbo into turnovers and limiting their second-chance opportunities.
Viterbo made a push in the third quarter, but ONU outscored them 32-29 to maintain a comfortable lead. Marshall took over in the period, scoring 9 points, while Papenfuss added 8 points. Lindsey Nell also contributed, scoring 2 points in the third. Although Viterbo found some rhythm offensively, ONU’s continued balanced scoring kept them in control, with a 102-54 lead heading into the final quarter.
In the fourth quarter, ONU maintained their momentum, outscoring Viterbo 17-15. Nell finished strong with 6 points, and Michael added 7 points, helping to close out the game. Marshall scored 2 more points to finish with a game-high 21, and Rolison rounded out her performance with 14 points. ONU shot 51.1% from the field and had strong bench contributions throughout the game, finishing with a dominant 119-69 win.
Looking Ahead
ONU will face Providence University in the West Palm Beach Classic in West Palm Beach, Florida, on December 17th at 12:15 p.m. CST. After this commanding performance, the Tigers will look to build on their momentum and continue their strong play in the upcoming tournament.
–ONU—
*Contact Anyssa Hampton, Sports Information Graduate Assistant, ahampton@olivet.edu
For more news on ONU Athletics visit onutigers.com
