ARKADELPHIA, Ark. --- MC women's hoops fell to Ouachita Baptist, 77-70. The Choctaws move to 1-3 on the season while OBU improves evens its record at 1-1.
Valencia McFall led with a career-high 29 points, shooting 12-for-20 from the field and securing eight rebounds. The Ocean Springs, Miss., native, who recorded her second 20-plus point game of the season, was one of three Choctaws in double figures scoring.
Nia Coleman chimed in 18 points, connecting on 7 of 18 attempts, while adding seven rebounds and two steals.
Mariam Olawoyin was active on defense, recording three steals and collecting eight rebounds.
Vivian Sketoe added 10 points.
MC began the first quarter with strong defensive rebounding, pulling down 13 defensive boards to control possession. McFall contributed significantly with multiple successful layups, leading the team in the paint as the squad dominated in paint points for the game, 34-26. The Choctaws capitalized on free throws, converting all six attempts, maintaining a slim lead throughout the quarter, and leading 20-18 after the opening 10 minutes.
Ouachita Baptist gained momentum early in the second quarter with back-to-back 3-pointers, taking a narrow lead. The Blue and Gold responded with a balanced attack, highlighted by McFall's consistent scoring in the paint. MC capitalized on free throw opportunities and a key 3-pointer by Sketoe, cutting the deficit. However, the Tigers' bench contributed, helping to extend their advantage, and leading 42-37 at the half.
MC opened the third quarter narrowing OBU's lead through effective scoring in the paint and capitalizing on turnovers. Coleman and McFall contributed significant points during a stretch where the Blue and Gold's defensive pressure forced multiple turnovers, limiting the opponent's opportunities. A key 3-pointer by Sketoe at the 59-second mark gave the Blue and Gold a narrow lead, 56-55, as it outscored Ouachita Baptist by six in the period.
In the fourth quarter, MC quickly regained momentum with a fast-break layup by Coleman, assisted by Olawoyin, pushing them ahead 58-57. McFall added a jumper from the paint, extending the lead to 60-57. However, the Purple and Gold responded with a scoring run, taking the lead at 63-61 after a pair of free throws by Heidi Robinson.
MC faced challenges with turnovers, allowing OBU to build on their lead. Despite a late push that included a three-pointer by McFall and another by Coleman with 14 seconds remaining, MC could not close the gap as Ouachita Baptist secured the seven-point victory.
Audri Winfrey led Ouachita Baptist with 17 points, shooting 6-for-13 from the field, including five 3-pointers, and added eight rebounds. Madeleine Tipton contributed 18 points, making all 10 of her free throw attempts, while also securing seven rebounds.
MC returns to action on Tuesday, Nov. 25 as it opens home play against Arkansas-Monticello. Admission is free to the contest as the MC Athletics is collecting can food items for local food pantries. Tip-off is 5 p.m.
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