BETHANY, Okla. - Southern Nazarene battled until the final seconds and came away with a thrilling 50-48 win over Northwestern Oklahoma State on Saturday afternoon, clinching a spot in the 2026 GAC Tournament.

The Crimson Storm (10-16, 10-12 GAC) opened the game with strong defensive energy, holding Northwestern Oklahoma State (19-9, 14-8 GAC) to just seven points in the first quarter while building an 11-7 lead. SNU controlled the tempo early, forcing tough shots and converting on key opportunities inside the Sawyer Center.

The Rangers answered in the second quarter, limiting Southern Nazarene to seven points and trimming the lead to 18-15 at halftime in a defensive battle. Both teams struggled to find offensive rhythm, but the Storm maintained a narrow edge heading into the break.

Northwestern Oklahoma State surged ahead in the third quarter, briefly taking the lead behind efficient shooting. Southern Nazarene responded late in the period to pull back within one, setting up a dramatic final frame.

SNU trailed midway through the fourth but rallied behind clutch plays from Halyn Browning and Hannah Duncan. Duncan knocked down a go-ahead three-pointer in the final minute, and Browning delivered at the free-throw line in the closing seconds to secure the two-point victory.

Browning led the Crimson Storm with a career-high 18 points, knocking down a late three and converting crucial free throws down the stretch. Jillian Crawford added 10 points and five rebounds, while Jordan Hoffman finished with eight points and four steals. Shannon Burton controlled the glass with eight rebounds as SNU forced turnovers that turned into key scoring chances. 

The Crimson Storm shot 33.9 percent from the field and forced key turnovers throughout the game, converting them into 19 points. SNU also received contributions from its bench and controlled the glass in the tight contest helping secure the 50-48 win at home.

Next Up
Southern Nazarene will await seeding and matchup information for the upcoming Great American Conference Tournament.