YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – The IU Indy women's basketball team put together a balanced, wire-to-wire effort to secure a 61–52 Horizon League victory over Youngstown State, using steady scoring in all four quarters and timely runs to keep control of the game.
Olivia Smith led with a team-high 16 points while
Nevaeh Foster and
Kamara Mills each added 11 points.
IU Indy set the tone early, opening the game with strong defensive pressure and efficient scoring to take an 11–9 lead after one. The Jaguars limited Youngstown State's shooting and avoided early foul trouble while establishing their pace. The Penguins chipped away at the lead a little in the second frame, outscoring the Jags 15–16. IU Indy went into halftime with a narrow one-point lead.
IU Indy delivered its strongest quarter after the break, scoring 19 points while holding Youngstown State to 15. The Jaguars pushed the tempo, capitalized on turnovers, and built separation with a mix of transition baskets and paint touches to take a five point lead into the final quarter.
Youngstown State made a late push, but IU Indy responded with poise, scoring 16 points in the final quarter to close out the win. Key defensive stops and timely baskets ensured the Jaguars maintained control down the stretch, earning the 61-52 win.
IU Indy finished with a balanced offensive attack, scoring 24 points in the paint and 25 points off the bench. The Jaguars also forced 19 turnovers, converting them into 18 points, helping seal the conference victory.
Olivia Smith led IU Indy with a game-high 16 points, shooting 5-of-7 from the field and a perfect 4-of-4 at the free-throw line while adding six rebounds and two assists.
Nevaeh Foster delivered an all-around performance with 11 points, five rebounds, three steals, and one block.
Kamara Mills added 11 points on an efficient 4-of-5 shooting night, including 3-of-4 from beyond the arc.
Ariana Williams anchored the interior with 10 points and a team-high eight rebounds, helping IU Indy control the glass.
The Jags improve to 7-11 overall and 3-6 in Horizon League play. They will now return to Indy to host the Northern Kentucky Norse in the Jungle on Wednesday, January 21.
