Nov. 6, 2007

11.6.07 - OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla- The Mid-America Christian University Evangels fought off the Bethany College Swedes in the home opener Tuesday, Nov 6. MACU defeated Bethany College 82-70.

"We struggled through this game, but we came away with the win," Head Coach Willie Holley said. "Bethany played an excellent game and gave us everything we could handle."

The Evangels jumped out on the Swedes early, jolting to 10-0 lead. The Swedes responded and climbed their way back into the game and the cut the lead 10-6.

"I felt good we jumped out early, but I knew Bethany College would respond," Coach Holley said.

The Evangels stumbled into halftime with a 44-34 lead, but the Swedes trimmed the lead early in the second half. Bethany College cut the lead 46-42 with 16:42 to play.

MACU came storming back and claimed a twelve point lead at the 12:45 mark. The Evangels would keep the lead and fight off a pesky Swedes team at the end to claim the victory.

Stevan Thomas led the Evangels with 19 points and six rebounds, while Joe Brown contributed 16 points and nine rebounds.

Terrance McCollister came off the bench and produced 14 points. Tracy Wilkins had 11 points, five assists, and four steals. Clint Nixon scored ten points and grabbed five rebounds.

MACU honored the 2007 NCCAA Division II National Championship team before the game.

The Evangels improved to 2-0 on the young season.

MACU will travel to Hawkins, Texas Friday, Nov 9, and play Jarvis Christian University at 7:30 p.m.