TEMPE, Ariz. (Interstat) — In a pivotal Big 12 Conference clash defined by defensive stands and critical late-game execution, the Arizona State Sun Devils edged the Oklahoma State Cowgirls 74-69 in women’s basketball on Wednesday night at Wells Fargo Arena.

Arizona State improved to 19-5 overall, while Oklahoma State fell to 18-6. The result defied pregame projections that heavily favored the visiting Cowgirls.

The most decisive stretch of the game arrived in the final minute of a tense fourth quarter. Trailing 69-67, Arizona State’s Deborah Davenport secured an offensive rebound off a missed 3-pointer with 33 seconds remaining. On the ensuing possession, Gabby Elliott drew a foul and calmly sank two free throws to tie the game with 25 seconds left.

Oklahoma State’s ensuing inbound play resulted in a turnover, and Elliott struck again, hitting a tough turnaround jumper in the lane to put the Sun Devils ahead 71-69 with 12 seconds on the clock. After a Cowgirls timeout, Oklahoma State’s Jadyn Wooten was fouled but could only make one of two free throws, leaving her team down one with 19 seconds to go.

Arizona State then effectively sealed the victory at the line. Elliott made two more free throws, and after a missed Oklahoma State 3-pointer, McKinna Brackens grabbed the defensive board, was fouled and hit one of two attempts to establish the final five-point margin.

The game was a stark contrast in offensive efficiency. Arizona State shot 45.5% from the field, capitalizing on 25-of-55 shooting. Oklahoma State, despite attempting 14 more shots, struggled to a 31.9% clip, making 22 of 69 attempts. The Cowgirls compensated with a 19-of-22 performance from the free-throw line and a dominant 15 offensive rebounds, but their 6-of-27 shooting from 3-point range proved costly.

Brackens led all scorers with 20 points for Arizona State, adding two assists and two blocks. Elliott contributed 17 points, including several crucial late baskets, while Davenport provided a vital spark off the bench with 18 points in just 22 minutes, alongside three blocks.

For Oklahoma State, Achol Akot scored 18 points and Wooten added 16 points and four assists. Haleigh Timmer finished with 10 points.

Arizona State built its lead with a strong third quarter, outscoring Oklahoma State 24-18 to turn a 31-29 halftime deficit into a 55-49 advantage heading to the final period. The Sun Devils’ defense was a constant, recording nine blocks and forcing 14 turnovers, which offset their own 14 giveaways.

The announced attendance was 3,138.

Oklahoma State next hosts UCF on Saturday. Arizona State travels to face Baylor, also on Saturday.