Feb. 11, 2008
2.11.08 - ALVA, Okla. - The Mid-America Christian University Evangels comeback fell short against the Northwestern Oklahoma State University Rangers in Sooner Athletic Conference play Monday, Feb 11. The Rangers defeated the Evangels 75-71.
"The first half was the difference in this game," MACU Head Coach Willie Holley said. "In order to win in this league you have to put together two good halves, and we did not do that tonight."
The Evangels struggled in the first half, scoring just 30 points and allowing NWOSU to shoot 50% from the field. The Rangers scored 13 points off of MACU turnovers, while the Evangels scored just six points off of Ranger turnovers. MACU out rebounded NWOSU 50-36, but the Rangers put together more second chance points than the Evangels.
The beginning of the first half was back and forth, which included three lead changes in the opening five minutes of the game. The Rangers went on a 7-0 run at the fifteen minute mark, and held a 17-10 lead. The Evangels responded, pulling within a single point with 12:37 remaining in the first half.
NWOSU scored on the ensuing possession, which sparked an 11-0 run and resulted in a twelve point lead for the Rangers. MACU cut the lead to single digits with two minutes left in the first half, but the Rangers stretched its lead to 44-30 at halftime.
NWOSU scored on the first play of the second half and held its largest lead of the game, 46-30, but the Evangels fought back. Junior Tyron Goldsmith hit a shot to pull MACU within five points at the 14:05 mark.
The Rangers stretched their lead back to double digits, but MACU cut the lead again to less than ten points. NWOSU regained the momentum and took an eleven point lead going into the final four minutes of the game. MACU began to chip away at the lead, pulling within three points with second remaining, but NWOSU hit one of two free-throws with two seconds left in the game and sealed the win.
Senior Stevan Thomas had a good game with 21 points and 10 rebounds. Senior Joe Brown scored a team high 22 points and grabbed eight rebounds. Senior Tracy Wilkins contributed 11 points, while Goldsmith had eight points and 10 rebounds off the bench.
The Evangels fall to 8-16 on the season, and 4-12 in conference play.
MACU will host St. Gregory's University Thursday, Feb 14. Game time is slated for 8:00 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.
