The Air Force women’s basketball team fought hard but couldn’t close out a tough game against Oregon State, losing 60–49 at Gill Coliseum on Monday evening.
The Falcons stayed within a single possession late in the match, but the Beavers finished strong with a 9–2 run to secure the win. Despite the loss, Air Force showed resilience and several bright performances from key players.
Game Summary
The game started with Oregon State taking an early lead. The Beavers came out shooting hot from long range, hitting three of their first four three-pointers. They ended the first quarter on a 7–0 run, giving them a 17–8 advantage over the Falcons after the first ten minutes.
In the second quarter, Air Force fought back. Junior Keelie O’Hollaren, an Oregon native, caught fire with two three-pointers, scoring eight points in the first half.
The Falcons’ defense also stepped up, forcing five turnovers before the media timeout and cutting the score to 22–18. However, Oregon State closed the half on a 10–2 run to take a 32–20 lead into halftime.
The Falcons came alive after the break. They opened the third quarter with an 11–2 scoring run, closing the gap to 34–31. But Oregon State quickly answered with a 9–0 streak.
O’Hollaren hit her third three-pointer of the night, and Jordyn Devaughn added a jumper, keeping Air Force within striking distance at 43–36 entering the fourth quarter.
In the final period, Devaughn’s free throws helped Air Force narrow the score to 47–44 with six minutes remaining. The Falcons continued to fight, but Oregon State’s Nene Sow scored key baskets inside, helping the Beavers pull away late and seal the win.
Top Performers and Key Stats
| Player | Points | Rebounds | Assists | Notable Stats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Keelie O’Hollaren | 13 | 3 | 2 | Season-best 13 points, 3 steals |
| Jordyn Devaughn | 11 | 4 | 1 | Strong finish with clutch free throws |
| Milahnie Perry | 10 | 3 | 5 | Balanced performance with 5 assists |
| Jayda McNabb | 6 | 7 | 1 | Led team in rebounds |
Even though the Falcons lost, they led in several important team categories:
- Free throw percentage: 69%
- Points off turnovers: 17
- Offensive rebounds: 14
- Fast-break points: 6
- Steals: 11
These stats show that Air Force played with high energy and strong defensive pressure. The main difference was Oregon State’s ability to make shots during key stretches of the game.
What Went Right for Air Force
The Falcons showed great teamwork and intensity on defense. Their ability to force turnovers and grab offensive rebounds gave them more scoring opportunities. O’Hollaren’s shooting from the perimeter and Devaughn’s confident play at the free-throw line were clear highlights.
Despite facing a top-level opponent, Air Force kept the game close through three quarters. Their balanced scoring and hustle on defense kept them in contention until the final minutes.
What Needs Improvement
Air Force needs to focus on maintaining consistency in crucial moments. While they closed the gap several times, they struggled to stop Oregon State’s runs late in each half.
Improving offensive execution during pressure situations will be key for future games. Better ball movement and limiting turnovers can help convert more opportunities into points.
The 60–49 loss to Oregon State was tough, but the Falcons proved they can compete against strong teams. With more focus in the closing minutes, Air Force can turn close losses into wins.
Their defense, hustle, and growing chemistry give hope for upcoming games. Each matchup is another step toward building confidence and stronger finishes.