OWENSBORO, KY- In a game that was close throughout, the #2 Ashland Eagles outlasted the KWC Panthers 76-71 in intense G-MAC action. Neither team was able to pull away as there were nine lead changes and the score was tied 13 times.

With the win, Ashland moves to 22-1 (17-0 GMAC), while Kentucky Wesleyan falls to 14-9 (11-6 GMAC).  

From the opening tip-off, the game was filled with scoring and physical defense. Both teams traded baskets back and forth and the Panthers used a free throw by Rachel Richardson to take a 16-15 into the second quarter.

Both teams combined for 42 points in a high scoring second quarter. KWC looked to pull away after a three from Emma Johnson and a layup from Cali Nolot gave KWC all the momentum and a four point lead late in the frame. Ashland didn't let KWC pull away and the teams went into the break tied at 36.

The Panthers started off the second half hot, getting the crowd going with two quick layup from Tahlia Walton and Corina Conley. Four minutes into the frame Shaylee McDonald gave Wesleyan their largest lead of the game (8) with a tough contested jumper. Ashland fought back and went on an 8-0 run at the end of the frame to take a 56-53 lead heading into the final 10 minutes of actoin.

In the fourth quarter, The Eagles fought off countless attempts by the Panthers to cut into the lead. After going down by 11, KWC worked their way back and cut it to three on a Walton layup with 49 seconds left. Ashland hit their free throws in the end and took the game by a 76-71 score. 

The Panthers had four players crack double digits with Cali Nolot leading the way with 14 points while Tahlia Walton, Corina Conley, and Emma Johnson all finished with 10 points. Reeva Hammelman led the team in rebounds with five, and Tahlia Walton led the team in assists with seven.  

Wesleyan shot 28-56 (50.0%) from the field and 5-22 (22.7%) from behind the arc. Ashland shot 25-51 (49.0%) from the field and 8-24 (33.3%) from three.  

KWC will be back in action Monday night at home against the Tiffin Dragons. Tipoff is set for 5 p.m. CT.  

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