SURPRISE, ARIZ. – The OUAZ women's basketball team had its opportunity to qualify for the NCCAA tournament on Thursday, and lead by four with 2:31 to go, but could not hang on against Menlo College, losing 73-69 at Faith Arena.

Turnovers plagued the Spirit all night long, as they had 25 turnovers with 10 of those coming in the first quarter. In total, 32% of OUAZ's possessions ended in a turnover on Thursday night.

The Spirit continued to dominate the glass, as they finished with a 48-42 rebound advantage. The issue came in keeping the Oaks from grabbing offensive rebounds, as Menlo had more offensive boards than defensive ones (22-20).

After Kirsten Shinske hit a jumper to put the Spirit up four, Menlo went on a 13-5 run to end the game. In that run, the Oaks shot 4-4 from the field, including 2-2 from 3PT, and nabbing three steals.

Mickey Freeman stayed hot, as she put up 24 points and 17 rebounds. Her 17 boards is now the second most in a single game in program history, jumping her 16-rebound effort against Life Pacific last Thursday.

Kirsten Shinske recorded a double-double, scoring 10 points and 10 rebounds to go along with an assist. Natasa Radovic added 20 points and seven rebounds, plus lead the team in assists with four.

The Spirit will wrap up the regular season on Saturday against William Jessup, and OUAZ must win in order to qualify for the NCCAA tournament. Tip-off of the season finale at Faith Arena is scheduled for Noon AZ time.