Findlay, Ohio — The University of Findlay women's basketball team went toe-to-toe with undefeated Thomas More for three quarters on Thursday, Dec. 4 inside Croy Gymnasium, but a powerful second-half push from the Saints handed the Oilers a 79–63 defeat in their G-MAC opener. With the loss, Findlay moves to 3–3 overall and 0–1 in conference play, while Thomas More improves to 6–0 and 1–0 in the G-MAC.

Findlay opened the night with confidence, matching the Saints shot for shot and establishing an early presence in the paint. 

Senior Alyssa Ziehler led the charge, delivering a standout 21-point, 10-rebound performance that anchored the Oilers' interior attack. Her play helped Findlay take an 18–17 edge after the first quarter.

Despite struggling from the perimeter in the second quarter, the Oilers kept pace through free throws, toughness on the glass, and consistent inside scoring. 
Juniors Addisyn Freeman, Allie Stockton, and freshman Lauryn Auchmuty provided steady contributions throughout the half. Auchmuty added key scoring off the bench, finishing with 12 points and giving Findlay needed energy when the offense stalled. 

The Oilers entered halftime down just 34–33 after a late Saints run.

The momentum shifted in the third quarter as Thomas More's efficiency began to shine. The Saints shot 53 percent in the period and capitalized on Oiler turnovers to create separation on the scoreboard. 

Findlay continued to fight—getting timely buckets from Auchmuty, Freeman, and Stockton—but Thomas More's defensive pressure and transition scoring allowed them to take a 55–50 lead into the final frame.

Freeman drilled a three early in the fourth to cut the deficit to four, giving Findlay one last push. However, the Saints responded immediately, piecing together stops and finishing at the rim to halt the comeback. 

The Oilers went cold from deep late, shooting just 18 percent from three in the second half, while Thomas More closed the game on a decisive 24–13 run.

Findlay looks to bounce back on Saturday, Dec. 6, when they host Kentucky Wesleyan at 1 p.m. inside Croy Gymnasium.