EDMOND, Okla. - For the first time since joining NCAA Division II, Southern Nazarene played it's first double-overtime game.

SNU (2-0, 0-0 GAC) prevailed victorious against the Bronchos (3-1, 0-0 MIAA) of Central Oklahoma in a Saturday thriller, 81-76. This is the best start for the Storm since the 2017-18 season where they started 3-0. 

It was another dominating defensive performance for the Crimson Storm as they held the Bronchos to 27-84 (32%) from the floor. SNU forced 23 turnovers and snagged 14 steals away from UCO. The Storm got off to slow start as the Bronchos outscored them 21-17, but bounced in the second quarter and put up 13 points to the 12 of Central Oklahoma to face a 33-30 deficit heading into the break

Southern Nazarene struggled shooting as they shot 25-65 (38%) on the afternoon and only knocking down six triples. The Storm were able to come in 67% from the free throw line as well.

Kennedy Gillette led the way for the Storm on the offensive side as she recorded 19 points, shooting 6-11 from the field. Gillette also grabbed seven rebounds and poked away a team-high three steals. Alexus Jones and Jaycee Soap also continued in their impressive play as they both finished with 13 points a piece. Jones shot 4-8, recorded two steals and and six rebounds as well. Soap shot 4-12 and registered eight rebounds. 

Sonia Sarda chimed in with 10 points of her own while dishing out eight assists. Forward Abby Niehues knocked down three of her nine shots to finish with nine points and came away with eight rebounds in the matchup. Freshman Cassandra Awatt was an asset off the SNU bench as she put together six points as well. 

The Bronchos were able to make a comeback after seeing the Storm lead after the 3rd quarter of action. UCO outscored SNU 20-17 to tie the game and force overtime. 

The game was back in forth as the period saw some spectacular defense, and sat at an even score of 67-67 to bring the matchup to more extended time. The Storm didn't feel the need to take the game any further as they scored 14 points in double overtime to top the Bronchos. 

Southern Nazarene will return to action at home, next Thursday, to open GAC play against Northwestern Oklahoma State. Tipoff is scheduled for 5:30 p.m.