MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich. (Interstat) — In a dramatic, low-scoring affair decided in the final seconds, the Central Michigan Chippewas edged the Purdue Boilermakers 57-55 in a non-conference women’s basketball game Sunday at McGuirk Arena.

The contest was a tale of two halves, defined by a stunning offensive collapse from the visiting Boilermakers. Purdue, which built a commanding 35-25 halftime lead, was held to just five points in the fourth quarter, allowing Central Michigan to complete a methodical comeback in front of 1,013 spectators.

Purdue opened the game with precision, racing out to a 20-12 lead after the first quarter. The Boilermakers’ early success was fueled by efficient ball movement and a stifling defense that generated turnovers. Hila Karsh of Rishon Leziyon, Israel, set the tone with an early 3-pointer, and the Boilermakers consistently found easy baskets, finishing the game with 34 points in the paint and 23 points off turnovers.

However, the offensive well ran dry after halftime. After scoring 15 points in the third quarter to maintain a 50-43 lead, Purdue’s attack completely stalled in the final period. The Boilermakers managed only two field goals in the fourth quarter, going scoreless for long stretches as the Chippewas chipped away at the deficit.

Central Michigan’s comeback was spearheaded by Ayanna-Sarai Darrington. The 6-foot-2 forward from Lexington, Kentucky, delivered a game-high 16 points, including several crucial baskets and free throws down the stretch. Her presence in the paint was also felt defensively, recording a block.

With the game tied in the final minute, Central Michigan’s defense made the decisive play. After a Purdue turnover, the Chippewas worked the ball to Madi Morson, who sank a mid-range jumper with 23 seconds remaining to give Central Michigan a 57-55 lead.

Purdue had two final opportunities to tie or win the game. On the ensuing possession, Kiki Smith’s driving layup was blocked by Nekhu Mitchell. The Boilermakers retained possession, but Tara Daye’s driving attempt in the lane rimmed out in the final seconds, sealing the victory for the home team.

Daye, a guard from Newark, New Jersey, led Purdue with 14 points. Madison Layden-Zay of Kokomo, Indiana, added 7 points and played a team-high 35 minutes in the loss.

For Central Michigan, Mitchell, a native of Baltimore, Maryland, provided a strong all-around performance with 8 points, 3 assists and 2 blocks. Taylor Anderson of South Lyon, Michigan, facilitated the offense with 3 assists and was a key contributor on the boards.

The loss drops Purdue to 4-3 on the season, while Central Michigan improves to 5-2. The Boilermakers will look to rebound at home against Evansville on Wednesday. Central Michigan travels to face in-state rival Michigan, also on Wednesday. According to Interstat’s ELO system, Purdue had entered the game with a 74.90 percent probability to win, making the result a significant upset.