OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. -- Despite a strong second-quarter push, the John Brown University women's basketball team couldn't hold off No. 22 Mid-America Christian, falling 71-60 in Sooner Athletic Conference play on Thursday night (Jan. 30) inside Gaulke Activity Center.
The Golden Eagles (11-10, 9-8 SAC) kept pace with the host Evangels (19-3, 15-3 SAC) through three quarters, but a 26 percent shooting effort in the fourth quarter ended the visitor's chances at dealing MACU the upset.
For the first time this season, the Blue and Gold were led by freshman Erin Merkel, who posted a team-high 14 points while adding seven rebounds and converting 7-of-8 from the free-throw line. Senior Graci Harris chipped in 11 points, four assists, and four steals, while sophomore Sarah Snodgrass contributed 10 points and four rebounds.
John Brown shot 34 percent (18-of-53) from the floor but found success from beyond the arc, knocking down eight three-pointers at a 36 percent clip. The Golden Eagles also capitalized at the charity stripe, converting 16-of-21 (76.2 percent). However, MACU capitalized inside with 46 points in the paint and a 39-29 rebounding edge.
Mid-America Christian was led by Kylee Scheer, who finished with a game-high 18 points, eight rebounds, and four assists. Shy Christopher added 16 points, while Syncere Harrod contributed 12 points and three steals. The Evangels shot 44 percent (26-of-59) from the floor and held a 16-9 advantage in second-chance points.
John Brown found its offensive rhythm in the second quarter, outscoring MACU 23-12 behind five three-pointers, including a deep shot from freshman Lilli Mindeman that gave JBU a 33-28 lead at the break. The Golden Eagles continued its lead at five points early in the third quarter before MACU responded with a late run to take a one-point lead heading into the final period.
In the fourth quarter, the Evangels clamped down defensively, holding JBU to 15 points while forcing the visitors to shoot 3-of-12. While the Golden Eagles hung close via a 9-of-11 effort from the charity stripe in the frame, Mid-America Christian closed the game on with a layup followed by a triple, blowing open the six-point margin with two minutes remaining.
John Brown will look to bounce back on Saturday afternoon (Feb. 1) when it hosts Southwestern Christian (Okla.) at Bill George Arena. Tipoff is scheduled for 2 p.m., with the game streaming live on the SAC Sports Network.
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