26 Dec 2024 Harding wins 30th straight at Rhodes-Reaves, downs Ouachita

SEARCY — Harding women’s basketball team cruised to a 72-51 victory over Ouachita Baptist on Dec. 19 at the Rhodes-Reaves Field House, improving to 9-2 overall and 5-0 in the Great American Conference.

The win marked Harding’s 30th consecutive home victory and its six straight overall.

The Lady Bisons came out strong, leading 9-0 at the first media timeout and scoring the first 16 points of the game. They dominated the first quarter, outscoring Ouachita Baptist 25-5. Harding shot 9-of-17, while holding Ouachita to 1-of-11 shooting.

Aubrey Isbell led Harding with 20 points, including two crucial 3-pointers in the fourth quarter. The Lady Bisons made three 3-pointers as part of a 10-2 run from midway through the fourth quarter, extending their lead to 66-47.

Sage Hawley had a standout performance, recording her NCAA II-leading 58th career double-double with 16 points, 19 rebounds, four assists, three steals, and two blocked shots. Rory Geer added 13 points and 12 rebounds, making 9 of 10 free throws, for her 20th career double-double.

Madeleine Tipton led Ouachita Baptist with 27 points.

With the win, Harding enters the Christmas break as the only undefeated team in conference play. They will face Southern Arkansas on Jan. 4 in Magnolia.