Findlay, Ohio — The University of Findlay women's basketball team returned to Croy Physical Education Center on Tuesday, Nov. 25, but the Oilers were unable to slow top-ranked Grand Valley State, falling 92–57 to the No. 1 team in the WBCA NCAA Division II Coaches' Poll. With the setback, Findlay moves to 3–2 overall, while the undefeated Lakers advance to 5–0.
Junior guard MacKenzie Schulz shined for Findlay, delivering a game-high 21 points on an efficient 8-of-13 shooting while connecting on four three-pointers. Her aggressive play helped spark the Oilers during several offensive stretches. Junior guard Taylor Stanley added 9 points and continued to provide steady backcourt production, while senior forward Alyssa Ziehler contributed 7 points, 3 rebounds, and a block across 30 hard-fought minutes.
Grand Valley State set the tone early, opening the contest on a 10–0 run and using its defensive pressure to force turnovers that quickly turned into transition baskets. The Lakers' intensity allowed them to build a 27–9 advantage after the first quarter.
Findlay responded with its strongest effort in the second period. The Oilers shot better than 57% in the quarter, with Schulz knocking down shots from all over the perimeter to help steady the offense. Despite Findlay's improved rhythm and ball movement, GVSU maintained its momentum with balanced scoring and efficient execution, taking a 52–31 lead into the half.
The Lakers continued their strong play in the second half, finishing the afternoon shooting 59% from the floor and 44% from beyond the arc. GVSU's combination of size, depth, and scoring versatility proved difficult to slow down. Paige Vanstee led the way for the Lakers with 19 points and 8 rebounds, while MacKenzie Bisballe added 16 points and 8 boards.
Even with the sizeable deficit, the Oilers battled to the final whistle. Junior forward Aubri Spicer chipped in 6 points, and junior Addisyn Freeman added 4 points and 4 rebounds off the bench. Findlay also found success in key areas, shooting 38.9% from three and 80% at the free-throw line.
The Oilers now shift their attention to the start of conference play. Findlay returns to Croy on Dec. 4 to host Thomas More at 5:30 p.m., looking to reset and build momentum as league action begins.