ARKADELPHIA, Ark. - With their highest shooting percentage in conference play this season, the Ouachita Lady Tigers triumphed over the Northwestern Oklahoma State Rangers on Thursday, 83-60. 

The Lady Tigers were 50.8 percent on field-goal shooting for the game. Erica Sharp and Ashley Johnson finished perfect from the field, shooting 5-5 and 3-3, respectively. 

Defense was the story of the first half, as the Lady Tigers allowed only 17 points, and an incredible two points from Northwestern's entire starting five. Ouachita also forced 14 turnovers, which amounted to 14 points off turnovers. 

The Rangers did improve their scoring tremendously in the second half, but so did the Lady Tigers. Led by Nashia James, the Lady Tigers shot 54.8 percent in the second half, and 62.5 percent (5-8) from deep. James scored 14 points in the half and also grabbed five rebounds, four of them offensive. 

James led all players with 18 points, eight boards and five assists. Sharp and Breanna Harris each added 12 points, and Katie Kapler scored 11 points and grabbed five rebounds.

Coach Garry Crowder was honored after the game for earning his 700th win as a basketball coach the week before against Southern Nazarene. Crowder is three wins away from 300 as coach of the Lady Tigers.

The Lady Tigers (7-16, 5-12 GAC) will host Southwestern Oklahoma State on Saturday, Feb. 22. Game time is scheduled for 2 p.m.