GAME DETAILS
University of the Ozarks 64, Principia College 54
Records: University of the Ozarks (2-1), Principia College (2-2)
Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024
Clarksville, Ark.

THE BASICS
Clarksville, Ark. – Led by Abby Beene and Naomi Smith, the Eagles held off Principia College in the fourth quarter to win their home-opener 64-54 on Saturday. The duo of Beene and Smith combined for 39 points and 30 rebounds to push the Eagles to their second straight win. The Eagles cruised to a 36-24 halftime lead and extended the advantage to 52-37 at the end of the third quarter. But Principia slowly chipped away and came within 53-47 at the 7:40 mark of the fourth quarter. Principia then cut the deficit to five points before the Eagles moved ahead 57-49 on Lili Garcia's bucket at the 5:16 mark. Principia would close the gap to 58-54 with less than two minutes remaining. The Eagles got a clutch basket from Smith with 1:04 left and hit four straight free throws down the stretch to secure the game. Beene ended the game with 20 points and 11 rebounds while hitting a pair of three-pointers and making all four of her free throw shots. Smith countered with 19 points and 19 rebounds, with 15 of those boards coming on the defensive end. The Eagles outrebounded Principia 56-40 in the game.

TOP EAGLES
Scoring – (20) Abby Beene
Rebounding – (19) Naomi Smith  
Assists – (5) Lili Garcia  

TURNING POINT
The Eagles built a 52-37 lead heading into the fourth quarter to stave off a Principia late comeback. 

TIP-INS
The Eagles had a pair of players post double-doubles in the win. Abby Beene scored 20 points and grabbed 11 rebounds while Naomi Smith had 19 points and 19 rebounds.

UP NEXT
The Eagles will host Lyon College November 19.