Nov. 29, 2007

11.29.07 - OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla.- The Mid-America Christian University Evangels came up short in their Sooner Athletic Conference debut against the Rogers State University Hillcats Thursday, Nov. 29. The Hillcats held off the Evangels for the 70-62 win.

"I thought we played well and we executed throughout most of the game," Head Coach Willie Holley said. "We broke down at the end of the game and that hurt us."

The Evangels had 18 turnovers on the night and shot just 66% from the free-throw stripe. MACU had their chances down the stretch, but failed to capitalize on key opportunities.

The first half was back and forth, with the Evangels jumping out to an early, slim lead, but the Hillcats responded and took their first lead of the game mid-way through the first half. The Evangels regained the lead until Rogers State jumped back on top with 3:35 remaining in the first half

The first half displayed three lead changes and six ties, with both teams holding their largest lead at seven points.

The Hillcats held a 29-26 lead over the Evangels at halftime.

Rogers State stretched their lead to nine points in the opening minutes of the second half, but the Evangels quickly responded and cut the lead to a single possession. However, the Hillcats made a run and found themselves up double digits. The Evangels responded and cut the lead to three points with three minutes remaining in the game.

MACU never climbed over the hump and Rogers State held on for the win.

Senior Joe Brown scored a game high 24 points. Senior Donald Thorne contributed a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds, while Junior Clint Nixon scored 12 points and dished out six assists.

On Saturday, Dec. 1, the Evangels will travel to Siloam Springs, Arkansas and play John Brown University in a conference battle at 3:00 p.m.

If you are interested in playing men's basketball for MACU or would like more information about the men's basketball program, contact Coach Charles Goar at 405-692-3267 or via email at cgoar@macu.edu.