CLARKSVILLE, Ark.- Lyon College women's basketball took an early lead, but a strong second-half surge from the University of the Ozarks proved the difference as the Scots fell 84-71. With this loss Scots are now 4-5 on the season and remain 3-0 in SLIAC Conference play.
Lyon came out firing in the first quarter, knocking down four three-pointers and building an 18-13 lead after the opening period. Kaysharia Woods set the tone early, burying multiple threes in transition on her way to a team-high 20 points. The Scots shared the ball well and defended with discipline, forcing several early turnovers and holding momentum throughout the first 10 minutes.
The Eagles responded in the second quarter, using a series of timely shots to take a narrow 36-33 lead into halftime. Despite the shift, the Scots continued to find contributions across the lineup. Savanna Lopez delivered another dependable performance with 13 points, six rebounds, and four blocks, while Alyssa Abascal added 14 points and two steals of her own. Natalya Kaza guided the offense with six assists and chipped in 11 points, helping Lyon stay within striking distance.
Out of the break, Ozarks caught fire from long range and used a 20-5 run to create separation. The Eagles shot 55 percent in the third quarter and hit five three-pointers, pushing the Lyon defense to its limit. The Scots continued to fight, with Lopez and Molly Mason converting inside and Johanna Zocholl providing a spark off the bench with six points on 3-of-4 shooting, but Ozarks' efficiency on the glass and in transition proved hard to overcome.
Lyon continued to push until the final horn, scoring 19 points in the fourth and generating fast-break opportunities of their own. Woods knocked down four total threes, and the Scots forced 18 turnovers on the night, converting them into 16 points. However, Ozarks' rebounding advantage (55-33) and strong inside presence made the difference down the stretch.
Scots will return to Batesville to face the Crowley's Ridge College Pioneers on Saturday, December 20th at 3:00 PM in Becknell Gym.
