EDMOND, Okla. – The No. 10 Harding Lady Bisons closed out a tight road contest with a dominant fourth quarter to defeat Central Oklahoma, 61-51, Monday night at the Hamilton Field House.

With the victory, Harding improves its perfect record to 5-0 on the 2025-26 season. Its first 5-0 start since the 2013-14 team won its first 17 games.

Bench guard Allie Rehl provided the spark the Lady Bisons needed, scoring a career-high 17 points on an efficient 7-of-10 shooting from the floor, including 3-of-4 from three-point range. Rehl was instrumental in breaking the game open late, contributing six points in the decisive fourth period.

Harding's defense was critical in turning the tide, generating 15 points off turnovers compared to just six for the Bronchos. Center Kennedy Stout anchored the interior, recording 18 points, 7 rebounds, and a game-high five blocked shots. Guard Josie Williams also chipped in 13 points on 6-of-12 shooting.

The game featured 13 lead changes and eight ties. Central Oklahoma held a slim 11-10 edge after the first quarter and used a 7-0 run early in the second to take its largest lead of the night, 17-10. Harding battled back to tie the game at 27-27 heading into halftime.

The Lady Bisons edged ahead 42-40 after three periods before their offense exploded in the fourth. Harding went 7-of-12 (58.3%) from the field in the final 10 minutes, including two key three-pointers from Rehl, while holding UCO to just 3-of-14 shooting (21.4%). A layup by Myiah Butler with 3:22 remaining gave Harding its largest advantage of the game, 61-50, sealing the victory.

Central Oklahoma (1-3) was led by Kaitlyn McCarn, who finished with 18 points. Despite UCO controlling the rebounding battle, 49-37, the Bronchos were limited to 30.4% shooting (21-69) for the game.

The Lady Bisons return to action Saturday, Nov. 29 at home against Delta State in Harding's final nonconference game. Great American Conference play begins Dec. 4 at home against Southwestern Oklahoma.