Embry-Riddle delivered one of its grittiest performances of the season on Thursday evening, outlasting OUAZ 66–64 at the Activity Center in a wire-to-wire battle that came down to the final possession. The Eagles used a dominant middle stretch—outscoring the Spirit 19–6 in the second quarter and 24–18 in the third—to build a cushion just large enough to survive a furious OUAZ rally.

The Eagles' balanced scoring and relentless work on the glass proved decisive. Embry-Riddle outrebounded OUAZ 48–30, including 18 offensive boards, a margin that fueled 17 second-chance points. As noted in the official stats, the Eagles' "Largest Lead: 20 3rd-05:38" shows just how commanding the advantage became before OUAZ mounted its comeback.

Jordyn Smith set the tone early and often, finishing with 15 points on 4-of-8 shooting and a strong 7-for-9 at the line. Her ability to attack the paint was a constant pressure point for OUAZ. In the first quarter alone, she scored on a driving layup and added free throws.

Forward Makenzie Alapai delivered one of her most complete games of the season, posting 11 points and a game-high 9 rebounds, including several key defensive stops in the closing minutes.

Nicole Evenson and Morgan Evenson combined for 13 points, with Nicole knocking down three triples—including a momentum-swinging three at 9:39 of the third quarter

Embry-Riddle's depth proved essential. The bench contributed 17 points, matching OUAZ's reserves and providing stability during long stretches of foul trouble and rotation changes.  Riley Morris-Rexford added 6 points and 5 rebounds, while Jaelah Clayton chipped in 4 points on perfect shooting.

Despite trailing by as many as 20, OUAZ refused to fold. The Spirit exploded for 25 fourth-quarter points, repeatedly attacking the rim and converting at the line. Tiana Sledge scored 8 in the period, including a late pair of free throws that cut the lead to 66–64 with four seconds remaining.

ERAU will play their final game of the season on Saturday at 1pm in the Activity Center.