Feb. 9, 2008

2.9.08 - BETHANY, Okla. - The Mid-America Christian University Evangels fell to the Southern Nazarene University Crimson Storm in Sooner Athletic Conference play Saturday, Feb 9. The Crimson Storm beat the Evangels 65-47.

"The bottom line on tonight's game is that we did not make shots," MACU Head Coach Willie Holley said. "I thought we played well, but it is hard to win in this conference when you can not make baskets."

The Evangels shot 28% from the field, 26% from the three-point line, and 37% from the free-throw line for the game. The Crimson Storm scored 18 second chance points, and out rebounded MACU, 49-42, in a hostile environment.

The first half was back and forth, with three lead changes and four ties. The Crimson Storm started the game on an 11-4 run, but the Evangels went on a 9-0 and took the lead, 13-11, at the 12:53 mark. SNU responded and went on a 15-4 run, taking its largest lead of the first half, 26-17, with six minutes remaining in the first half.

The Evangels closed the gap within four points before halftime, and trailed 30-26 at halftime.

SNU reached its lead to double digits, 44-34, with 15:45 remaining in the game. The Crimson Storm held off the Evangels, despite MACU pulling within seven points with less than eight minutes left in the game. The Crimson Storm closed the game on a 10-0 run, and held on for the win.

Senior Stevan Thomas had a big game for the Evangels, picking up a double-double with 10 points and 11 rebounds. Junior Derek Winston had a good game off the bench, scoring 11 points and pulling down six rebounds.

The Evangels fall to 8-15 on the season, and 4-11 in SAC play.

MACU will play Northwestern Oklahoma State University on the road Monday, Feb 11. Tip-off 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.