KOKOMO, Ind. - The Indiana University Kokomo women's basketball played well against Oakland City in a 65-54 loss. The Mighty Oaks are receiving votes in the NAIA Coaches' Poll for the first time in program history.

An Alaya Chapman bucket gave the Cougars an early 2-0 lead, but Oakland City responded with eight-straight to lead 8-2. IU Kokomo responded well however, and trailed by just one at 11-10 with 3:13 remaining in the first quarter. The Cougars trailed 15-12 after one quarter.

After a 6-0 run gave the Mighty Oaks another seven-point lead, the Cougars slowly chipped away at the lead. A triple from Anya Friend tied the game at 25 with 4:50 to go in the first half. Oakland City regained the lead and led 38-32 at halftime.

Oakland City quickly managed to extend their lead to double-digits out of halftime. The Mighty Oaks controlled third quarter play, outscoring the Cougars 20-8 to lead 58-40 heading into the fourth quarter.

IU Kokomo scored on consecutive possessions to get within 14 points of Oakland City, forcing a Mighty Oaks timeout. The Cougars outscored Oakland City in the fourth quarter but fell to the Mighty Oaks 65-54. 

Anya Friend led the Cougars with 13 points on the evening. Friend also had a team-high five assists. Alaya Chapman turned in a solid performance, scoring nine points and grabbing eight rebounds.

Kristen Ridner had eight points and five boards, while Mia Catey scored eight points and Ella Wolfe added seven.

The Cougars will return to action Saturday afternoon as they travel to Owensboro, Kentucky to take on the Brescia Bearcats. Tip-off is set for 1:00 P.M.

For the latest news, updates, and information on the IU Kokomo Cougars, fans can visit IUKCougars.com. Fans can also stay up to date on the latest Cougar news by following @IUKAthletics on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.