EDMOND, Okla. – St. Edward's offense was firing on all cylinders as they defeated Oklahoma Christian 81-72 Thursday evening.
 
SEU led 16-6 late in the first quarter, but OCU closed the frame on a 9-2 run. St. Edward's held a slight three-point advantage, 18-15, heading into the second quarter.
 
The Hilltoppers shot 57.1% in the second quarter, 33.3% from three-point range while holding OCU to just 16.7% beyond the arc to lead 38-33 at halftime.
 
After hanging close all game the Eagles finally took the lead five minutes into the third quarter, 46-45, but SEU regrouped at the media timeout and ISABEL HERNANDEZ hit a jumper to hand the lead back over to the Hilltoppers.
 
With a five-point lead in hand, 57-52, SEU opened the fourth quarter on a 15-7 run to lead by 13, 72-59, with 3:17 to go. With a minute to play the Hilltoppers still held a 13-point advantage, 76-63, but the Eagles refused to give in, making it a two-possession game with 28 seconds remaining. SEU took care of business from the free throw line, however, making 3-4 of secure the win.
 
Hernandez led with 23 points while LEXI CUNNINGHAM added 15 and MARYAM WILCHER 13. SAMMIE DUFEK posted a team-high 10 rebounds and three blocks while Cunningham added four steals.
 
St. Edward's improves to 11-11 on the year and 3-5 in Heartland Conference play. They return to action on Saturday, facing Newman at 1 pm.