ROCHESTER, Mich. - Oakland fell to Northern Kentucky University, 84-59 at the OU Credit Union O'rena. Despite the loss, Oakland managed 36 points in the paint and secured 13 offensive rebounds.
Oakland opened the game with an early defensive play, as
Makenzie Luehring recorded a steal and converted it into a fast-break layup. Despite their efforts in the paint, scoring 8 points.
Filippa Goula contributed with a late layup and added a free throw from
Sereniti Roberts-Adams in the final seconds, closing the quarter trailing the Norse 22–14.
Oakland struggled in the second quarter as NKU extended its lead. Goula provided a highlight for Oakland with a 3-pointer at 3:28, assisted by Luehring, but the team faced challenges offensively, connecting on just two field goals in the quarter. Despite a late layup by Luehring, Oakland trailed 43–21 at halftime.
Oakland gained momentum in the third quarter with effective play in the paint, scoring 10 points inside. Goula contributed a key layup at 8:43, to narrow the gap early in the quarter. Despite a strong push from the Norse, including a 3-pointer from Maddie Moody at 5:03, Oakland's defense held steady.
Karinna Trotter provided a crucial block and defensive rebound in the final minute. Luehring capped the quarter by hitting a 3-pointer at 0:47 and converting both free throws with six seconds remaining. The quarter concluded with Oakland outscoring Northern Kentucky 16-13.
In the fourth quarter, Oakland focused its efforts in the paint, scoring 16 of its 22 points there.
Layla Gold contributed significantly, making several key layups. Despite the Norse's strong outside shooting, which included five 3-pointers, Oakland managed to counter with effective inside play and second-chance points.
Makenzie Luehring scored 20 points and recorded seven assists, leading the team's offense with her performance. Goula added 11 points, converting five of her 10 field goal attempts. Roberts-Adams contributed with seven rebounds, including five offensive boards. Trotter made an impact defensively by blocking two shots and securing five rebounds.
Looking ahead, Oakland will travel to Cleveland, Ohio, for a matchup against Cleveland State University. The game is set for Saturday, Feb. 28 at 7 p.m.
