MERCED, Cal. – Despite their best efforts, including a 13-0 run in the last two minutes, the Lady Owls were downed 83-76 by UC Merced's Bobcats in Merced, California on Saturday night. Oregon Tech slips to 3-2 with the loss while UC Merced improves to 3-1 with tonights results. 

"I'm really proud of the run our girls made at the end of the game," said Head Coach Scott Meredith. "To be down 16 with under 3 minutes to go and cut the lead down to 3 on the road against a quality opponent like Merced is a very difficult task. However, we really need to commit ourselves to team defense and consistently getting defensive stops. Tomorrow will be a test of our mental toughness and physical conditioning. I can't wait to get back on the floor.

Tech's shots were on point, making 28 of 59 from the floor and 7 of 12 from long range. Sophomore Abby Kreiser led with points, scoring a game high of 20 including 3-of-4 from long range in the final minutes. Freshman Melissa Lee and Senior Nohea Waiwaiole each added 12 to the score. 

The game was decided at the free-throw line, with UC Merced bringing in 23 points to Tech's 13. Most of these points came from the Bobcat's Mia Belvin, who scored 18 points – of which 10 were from the charity stripe. 

Tech will play Pacific Union College in Angwin, California this Sunday at 5:00 pm. You can listen live to the game with the Scott Meredith pre-game show starting at 4:30 pm on 104.3 and 960 Sports.  

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