by CHICKASHA, Okla. – Monday evening, the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (3-0, 0-0 SAC) used an incredible late-game rally to remain unbeaten, defeating Evangel University (0-2, 0-0 HAAC) by a final score of 83-80.
The Drovers struggled on the offensive end of the court in the first half, and trailed 36-44 after 20 minutes of play. In the opening half, USAO shot 11-for-32 (.344) from the field, and just 4-for-14 (.286) from three-point range.
Following halftime, the Crusaders began to gain some separation, pushing their lead to as many as 13 with less than six minutes to play in regulation. However, the Drovers would begin using a full-court press on defense, forcing numerous turnovers in the closing minutes and not allowing a single basket. USAO’s dominant defense, allowed the Drovers to close the game on a 16-0 run to stay undefeated, despite not holding a lead until only 13 seconds remained in the second half.
Following offensive struggles in the first half, USAO went 18-for-32 (.563) from the field to earn the win. The Drovers also proved to have ice in their veins at the free-throw line in the second half, going 8-for-11.
Cameron Hines (SR/Ft. Cobb, OK) and Stephon Hall (Mvskoke Creek) continued to lead the Drovers offensive attack, each tallying 18 points in the thriller. Hines contributed four rebounds, three assists, and a steal, while Hall added four rebounds, five assists, and a trio of steals.
Boudacar Diakite (JR/Mali) had a solid performance in his Drover debut, recording 14 points, eight rebounds, and three steals. Gerard Makuntae (JR/Austell, GA) also provided a boost down low, tallying 10 points, five boards, four steals, and a pair of blocks.
Elvin Rodriguez (SR/New York, NY) overcame early struggles to help push the Drovers down the stretch. Rodriguez closed with six points, four rebounds, seven dimes, and a couple steals.
Silas Elliott (SO/Oklahoma City, OK) scored six points off the bench, while Kellen Hines (FR/Ft. Cobb, OK) added five more. Tre’veon Ellis (JR/Oklahoma City, OK) played great defense in the closing minutes of the game, additionally he scored four points and grabbed three rebounds.
