GAME DETAILS
University of the Ozarks 63, Howard Payne University 60
Records: University of the Ozarks (5-3), Howard Payne University (6-8)
Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025
Clarksville, Ark.

THE BASICS
Clarksville, Ark. – The Eagles will head into Christmas break with four straight wins after topping Howard Payne University 63-60 in a thriller Saturday afternoon. The Eagles had to overcome a sluggish first half to pull out the win. Howard Payne built a 40-35 halftime lead behind hitting 48 percent from the field. But the momentum went in favor of the Eagles in the third quarter as their defense clamped down. The Eagles' defense didn't allow a field goal in the third quarter. Howard Payne's only points in those ten minutes came from three free throws. The Eagles would outscore Howard Payne 16-3 in the third and hold a 51-43 lead going into the fourth quarter.  In the fourth, the Eagles held an eight-point advantage about the midway point, but Howard Payne wouldn't go away. Howard Payne cut it to 61-60 with one minute to play, but Dalena Fisher hit a pair of clutch free throws to extend the lead to 63-60. Howard Payne had the final possession but missed a three-pointer at the buzzer. The Eagles had a balanced scoring attack with Fisher leading the way with 13 points. Abby Beene had 12 and Elli Garcia finished with 10. 

TURNING POINT
The Eagles clamped down on its defensive pressure in the third quarter and did not allow a single field goal. Howard Payne went 0-for-14 from the field and only scored three points, all from free throws.

TIP-INS
The Eagles pulled down 50 rebounds, its second most on the season.

UP NEXT
The Eagles will head into Christmas break and will resume play December 30 against Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi.