The Golden Grizzlies women’s basketball team pulled away from the RedHawks in the second half to secure a 65-51 home victory on Friday night.

Oakland and Miami University (Ohio) met for the first time ever on Friday night, and the Golden Grizzlies were able to claw their way to a double digit victory. Oakland dominated early as their first 14 points came all in the paint as that helped them grab an early 18-5 lead. As they did for most of the night, however, the RedHawks responded with an 11-0 run and were able to dig out of the big early hole to make it a four point game at the half.

Oakland’s offense was really able to turn it on in the second half as they made seven of their nine three pointers in the second half. Head coach Jeff Tungate was pleased with the way his team adjusted once Miami (Ohio) switched their defense to stop the Golden Grizzly inside presence.

“The first half they played in man and we were able to run some plays that worked inside, then once they switched to zone they did a good job of taking away our inside,” said Coach Tungate. “We talked about at halftime how we really had to attack the zone and work from the inside out. We didn’t necessarily have to score inside; we just had to get the ball inside so the zone will collapse.” 

The Golden Grizzly defense also played very well as they forced 19 turnovers while just having eight of their own. One of the goals Coach Tungate had for his team was to have more assists than turnovers, which Oakland did on Friday night as they were able to record 19 assists on 24 made baskets.           

Oakland was led by junior forward Olivia Nash who had 13 points and nine rebounds, while senior guard Peyton Apsey almost recorded a triple-double with 11 points, seven rebounds and eight assists. The Golden Grizzlies did encounter some foul trouble in the first half, but Tungate thought his team played well through it.

“I always tell my players that even if they have three fouls, I want them to play like they have zero. The minute you start think about your fouls, you get tentative, you pick up your fourth and play poor defense,” Tungate said.

The win improves Oakland’s record to 2-3 on the season. The Golden Grizzlies will play Rochester College at home on Wednesday and will then travel to Ball State for a Saturday afternoon game.