GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Eight lead changes highlighted a tightly contested matchup inside the DU Student Center, where Davenport traded blows with Saginaw Valley State before a late push resulted in a 68–64 finish. The Panthers controlled stretches on both ends and looked poised to break away before the Cardinals capitalized late.

DU opened with one of its strongest quarters of the season, turning defensive pressure into early offense. The Panthers forced four steals and pushed ahead 21–12 by the end of the first quarter, converting nine points off SVSU turnovers. Davenport shot an efficient 53 percent from the field while holding the Cardinals to just 33 percent. Despite committing 19 team fouls overall, DU limited damage early and carried momentum into the second quarter.

Davenport's perimeter attack and ball pressure continued to shine before halftime. The Panthers connected on three 3-pointers and forced seven first-half turnovers, helping maintain an edge even as Saginaw Valley controlled the boards with a 10–4 rebounding advantage in the second quarter. Timely shot-blocking and defensive rotations slowed the Cardinals inside, and Davenport entered the break leading 37–29.

The third quarter swung back toward SVSU, which edged out a 16–14 period, though DU stayed in control behind interior defense and efficient trips to the free-throw line. Davenport blocked three shots and secured eight defensive rebounds in the quarter, capitalizing at the stripe by going 8-for-11. The Cardinals finished with 21 team fouls on the night, contributing to DU's opportunities at the line. The Panthers held a 51–45 lead entering the fourth.

Saginaw Valley rallied late, using a 23–13 fourth quarter to flip the score. The Cardinals produced a 12–6 edge in paint points and converted nine of their final 12 free-throw attempts to take control. Davenport continued to generate answers-including a clutch 3-pointer from Ellie Toney at the 2:24 mark to briefly regain the lead-but SVSU's rebounding and transition execution proved decisive down the stretch.

Davenport Top Performers
Ellie Toney

• 14 points
• 5 field goals
• 4 rebounds

Nevaeh Williams

• 11 points
• 3 assists
• 2 steals

Reese Polega

• 6 points
• 4 steals
• 2 blocks

Saginaw Valley Top Performers
Lydia Meredith

• 19 points
• 9-for-13 free throws
• 6 steals
• 5 assists

Megan McCalla

• 16 points
• 6-for-6 free throws
• 6 rebounds

Lauren Borsenik

• 11 points
• 9 rebounds
• 3 assists

Bella Paradowski

• 10 points
• 5-for-6 shooting