Berea, Ohio (December 30) — The Stevenson Mustangs delivered a determined four-quarter effort on day two of the BW Holiday Classic, using balanced scoring, defensive pressure, and steady execution, but ultimately fell to Oberlin, 70-57, in the consolation game.
Stevenson looked to set the tempo early by pushing the pace and attacking the basket. Anaya Price sparked the offense with aggressive drives, while the Mustangs' on-ball defense helped generate early stops. Oberlin, however, settled in quickly, finding an offensive rhythm and taking control of the opening quarter to lead 21-12.
The Mustangs continued to battle in the second quarter, showing improved ball movement and balanced contributions. Nadia Ferguson opened the scoring for Stevenson in the period, followed by a three-pointer from Mina Hashemzadeh. Despite the offensive push, Oberlin maintained control heading into halftime, sending Stevenson into the locker room knowing there was work to be done in the second half, trailing 43-19.
Out of the break, Stevenson responded with poise against increased defensive pressure, slowly chipping away at the deficit. Janiya Ennis connected on a pair of free throws to trim the margin to 16 midway through the third quarter. The Mustangs stayed locked in defensively and closed the period with two more free throws from Ferguson to cap 30 minutes of play.
In the final quarter, Stevenson played with confidence and control, but the comeback attempt came up short as Oberlin continued to shoot efficiently, finishing the game at 45.6 percent from the field. Stevenson outscored Oberlin 18-13 in the fourth, with late baskets from Price, Ennis, and Ella Richardson, but time expired before the Mustangs could fully close the gap, sealing the 70-57 result.
Price's consistent leadership and production throughout the tournament earned her a spot on the BW Holiday Classic All-Tournament Team.
Stevenson will look to carry its competitive momentum into the new year when the Mustangs return home to host Arcadia on Friday, January 3, in a 1 p.m. Cross-MAC matchup.
