ROCHESTER, Mich. - The Golden Grizzlies grinded out their fourth win in the last five games with a decisive 25-point fourth quarter at the OU Credit Union O'rena. Oakland secured the win by outscoring the Jags 34-32 in the paint.

Oakland began the first quarter with a strong defensive presence, highlighted by an Angie Smith's block at 8:06. Makenzie Luehring was pivotal in keeping Oakland competitive, contributing two crucial buckets in the opening frame, including a 3-pointer at 4:03, which tied the game at 10-10. Luehring's recent string of performances has been impressive, as she has scored 20+ points in three of her last four games. Despite IUI's efforts to break away with a 3-pointer from Kamara Mills at 2:50, Oakland maintained their composure. Luehring's second 3-pointer at 1:36 leveled the score again. The quarter concluded with both teams locked at 15-15, setting up a competitive contest.

The second quarter saw IUI steadily increase their lead, with a notable stretch that included a 3-pointer by Jemma Amoore at 1:17, which put them ahead 27-24. Oakland maintained pressure with Angie Smith contributing crucial free throws and a layup by Lianna Baxter cutting the deficit to 29-26 near the end. Despite the effort, Oakland trailed 29-26 at the halftime break.

Oakland opened the third quarter with balanced scoring from both inside the paint and the free-throw line. Filippa Goula and Luehring contributed key points to keep the score level early. The team matched IUI with 10 points in the paint this quarter, maintaining an even contest.

As the quarter progressed, Smith and Gold helped Oakland keep their momentum, trading baskets with IUI to keep the game closely contested. Smith's defensive rebound late in the quarter set up a quick transition layup by Jasmine "Jazzy" Dupree-Hebert, pulling Oakland within one point.

The quarter concluded with a narrow margin as IUI held a 41-39 lead. Despite trailing, Oakland's strong rebounding and fast-break points ensured the score remained tight heading into the final frame.

Oakland found momentum quickly in the fourth with another Smith layup at 9:12, cutting into IUI's early lead. Gold and Goula drilled back-to-back 3-pointers, tying the  score at 47, pulling the game even down the stretch.

Luehring broke Oakland through for the lead with a fast-break layup at 7:01, followed by another layup at 5:56, pushing the score to 53-49. Despite IUI's efforts, including a series of free throws, Oakland maintained pressure with defensive rebounds and timely assists. With Goula's jumper at 2:03, Oakland stretched the lead to 59-51.

The Golden Grizzlies stood firm at the free throw line In the final minutes, as a part of an 18-for-30 team performance at the line,  sealing their 64-61 victory after a night's best quarter scoring performance.

Luehring scored 24 points, adding six free throws and two 3-pointers, while also collecting five rebounds and three assists. Smith contributed 16 points, converting eight free throws and recording two steals, alongside six rebounds. Lianna Baxter pulled down 10 rebounds and added four points, supporting the team's efforts on the boards. Filippa Goula tallied 10 points, making three field goals and one 3-pointer, while securing five rebounds.

In their next matchup, Oakland will host Youngstown State University on Saturday, Jan. 31 at the OU Credit Union O'rena in Rochester, Michigan. The game is set to tip off at 2 p.m.