FOURTH QUARTER RUN NOT ENOUGH AS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL FALLS TO OTTAWA

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Avila women's basketball was unable to take advantage of one of the biggest home crowds of the season and fell to Ottawa, 72-54, at Mabee Fieldhouse on Wednesday evening.

A fourth-quarter run wasn't enough for the Eagles as the Braves led the game for the final 38 minutes and never gave away control of the contest.

Poor shooting from Avila's offense did not help matters as the Eagles only shot 33 percent from the floor.

Ottawa got off to a fast 23-15 start in the first quarter and never looked back. The Braves were balanced from all over the court, with just three players in double-figures, but seven players with five or more points.

The two teams were relatively evenly matched on the scoresheet, with the game settled on the offensive end. Ottawa knocked down 19 free throws to Avila's 11 and converted 44 percent of its shots from the field. The Braves also held a 14-point advantage in the paint (36-22).

The lone Eagle in double-figures was Marlie Wright, who put up 17 points to go along with three steals on the defensive end. Madilyn Melton was plagued by foul trouble all game, playing in just 20 minutes and adding seven points and five rebounds.

Avila will look to get back in the win column on Saturday as the team travels to Bethel at 1 PM.

(photo credit: Amari Leath)