The Ashland University women’s basketball team has remained as the top team in the nation after an incredible blowout over conference rival, the Findlay Oilers.

The Oilers, who have struggled this season with a 4-14 record, were exploited exponentially on the defensive side of things as the Eagle offense ran the court with ease.

In the first quarter of play, the Eagles started off hot and fast with a 10-0 run while forcing five turnovers. The Eagles held the Oilers scoreless in the first five minutes of play.

While the Eagles started off fast, their play slowed exponentially as they continue to turn the ball over ten times in the first half. They came into the contest as the No. 123 ranked team in Division II in turnovers per game.

Head Coach of the Eagles, Kari Pickens, stated at halftime that she wanted to see the team reduce the turnovers, and in the second half they did just that. In the second half of play, the Eagles only turned the ball over three times in the victory.

Heading into the fourth quarter of play, the Eagles led 64-31, with a handful of players contributing to the success. Transfer guard Savaya Brockington dominated with huge three-point shots that only built upon the energy inside Kate’s Gymnasium.

The Eagles also had the ability to empty their starters and give both freshmen Sophia Niese and Meredith Randulic the opportunity to receive minutes. In their minimal time, they contributed two points and two rebounds in five minutes.

To finish the contest they were led by Hayley Smith with 16 points, Annie Roshak with 12 points and 12 points from Savaya Brockington. The team as a whole shot 59% from the field and 44% from beyond the arc.

The Eagles now shift gears to take on the Tiffin Dragons on Saturday, Jan. 21, at 1 P.M. where they look to protect their 19-0 record.