by CHICKASHA, Okla. – Thursday night, the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (5-2, 0-1 SAC) had their five-game win-streak snapped as they opened conference play with a 97-90 loss against Southwestern Assemblies of God University (5-2, 1-0 SAC). The tightly contested matchup featured 12 lead changes, but the Lions were able to close out the game strong and distanced themselves in the final minutes.
The opening half was a heavyweight fight for the ages, with both teams showing why they are two of the top programs in the country. The lead was exchanged seven times in the opening 20 minutes of action and neither team led by more than seven. USAO was able to close out the first half with a 46-45 lead.
Following the break, the teams continued to trade the lead, but SAGU closed the game strong with a 20-10 run in the final five minutes of action.
The USAO offense finished the game shooting 36-77 (.468) from the field, 8-27 (.296) from beyond the arc, and 10-13 (.769) from the free-throw line. In comparison, SAGU shot 31-65 (.477) from the field, 8-21 (.381) from deep, and 27-36 (.750) from the charity stripe.
SAGU held a 44-38 advantage in the rebounding battle, but the Drovers outscored the Lions in the paint 38-34.
The Drovers were whistled for 26 fouls, and the Lions were called for 15 infractions. Both teams did a good job at taking care of the ball, with each team only committing seven turnovers.
Reggie Quezada led the USAO offense with 29 points, six rebounds, and three assists. Niieihii BlackBear delivered his best performance as a Drover, concluding with 17 points on 8-10 shooting from the field.
Anthony Ray added 14 points, followed by Tre Edwards with 11 points and four assists. Jayden Patcha and Manny Gatkek each finished with six points. Rory Pantophlet added four points and six rebounds. Logan Dolan closed with three points and five rebounds.
