SILOAM SPRINGS, Ark. -- Despite a commanding performance from freshman Sarah Snodgrass, who recorded a 19-point, 18-rebound double-double, the John Brown University women's basketball team dropped a close 65-59 decision to Science & Arts (Okla.) on Saturday afternoon (Dec. 7) inside Bill George Arena.
The Golden Eagles (5-5, 3-3 Sooner Athletic) struggled offensively, shooting just 31 percent (19-of-61) from the floor and 25 percent (7-of-28) from beyond the arc. Science & Arts (6-4, 4-2) countered with 49 percent shooting (24-of-49), and despite winning the rebounding battle 37-31 and forcing 11 turnovers, the Golden Eagles couldn't overcome its shooting woes in the first half.
Snodgrass led JBU with her eighth double-double of the season, including 11 offensive rebounds. Sophomore Abbey Sanders added 14 points, all except two from beyond the arc, while freshman Riley Gottsponer chipped in 10 points and added three rebounds.
Despite these efforts, JBU couldn't find consistency on offense, especially in the first quarter, where it scored just four points on seven percent shooting. The Blue and Gold did, however, turn 18 offensive rebounds into 19 second-chance points.
The game began with USAO surging to a 14-4 lead in the first quarter. JBU struggled to generate offense early, shooting just 1-of-14 from the floor. The Golden Eagles found a rhythm in the second quarter, however, outscoring the Drovers 16-11 behind Snodgrass's effort in the paint. At halftime, JBU had cut the deficit to five, 25-20.
In the third quarter, USAO extended its lead with a 21-point effort, shooting 53 percent from the field. Kassim and Harris led the charge as the Drovers pulled away, capitalizing on 6 points off turnovers. JBU responded with 18 points of its own, keeping the game within reach heading into the fourth.
The Golden Eagles mounted a comeback in the final frame, scoring 21 points on 50 percent shooting. Sanders hit two triples and Harris added a bucket late, trimming the deficit down to as little as three, however, USAO converted 7-of-8 free throws in the final minutes to secure the victory.
Science & Arts was paced by Anna Kassim, who tallied 17 points on 5-of-10 shooting and added four rebounds. Evangelia Davlakou contributed 15 points and four assists in the win as the Drovers held a 36-30 advantage in points in the paint.
The Golden Eagles return to action Thursday (Dec. 12) when Central Christian (Kan.) makes its way to Bill George Arena. Live on the SAC Sports Network, tipoff is scheduled for 6 p.m.
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