Bearcats Blaze Trail but Stumble Against Oklahoma State

CINCINNATI – The women’s basketball team of the University of Cincinnati was defeated by Oklahoma State on Wednesday evening at Fifth Third Arena.

Cincinnati (9-5, 1-3) struggled with a poor shooting performance, ending up with a score of 64-48. The Bearcats recorded season lows in points (48) and field goal accuracy (.297).

Forward Jillian Hayes became UC’s all-time leader in games played, participating in her 128th contest in the Red & Black, surpassing Chelsea Warren (2015-19). With eight rebounds, she also climbed to second on UC’s all-time rebounding chart with 981, eclipsing Bev Obringer (1984-89, 977). She contributed 14 points on 6-of-14 shooting.

Junior A’riel Jackson led the team with 15 points, achieving a career-high by sinking three 3-pointers. She has scored in double digits in three Big 12 games.

The Bearcats, who have dominated the boards in 11 games this season, were out-rebounded by 19 in this match (49-30).

Oklahoma State held a slight 8-6 lead at the media timeout in the first quarter. Hayes tallied seven of UC’s nine points during the first 10 minutes (12-9).

Cincinnati closed the gap to three (18-15) before Oklahoma State landed two three-pointers at the media break (24-15). The Bearcats then held the Cowgirls scoreless for four minutes while scoring eight unanswered points (24-23). Cincinnati trailed by three at halftime (26-23).

The Bearcats emerged from the locker room energized, making three of their first four attempts. Hylton scored a couple of fast break layups, allowing UC to regain the lead at 29-28. The Cowgirls then utilized a 9-0 run, extending their lead to six with one quarter remaining (43-37).

A’riel Jackson and Hayes responded with consecutive baskets, bringing UC within five at 8:27 in the fourth (46-41). Cincinnati wouldn’t get any closer, ultimately falling 64-48.

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Cincinnati will visit UCF for a 2 p.m. matchup on Saturday in Orlando, Fla.