Jan. 31, 2010

1.30.10 - Oklahoma City, Okla. - The Evangels entered a physical battle on Saturday afternoon, taking on Sooner Athletic Conference opponent No. 6 Southern Nazarene University. The Crimson Storm prevailed, winning 100-95 at the Gaulke Activity Center.

49 fouls were called in the contest, 30 of them were against MACU. The Evangels shot 90 percent from the free throw line but the Crimson Storm shot 77 percent, taking a few more trips to the line.

Five Evangels scored in double figures with Brandon Williams leading the team with 21 points. Charlie Shorter added 17 points, John Shodipo contributed 14 points, Van Craven had a career high 11 points and Cameron Langster rounded out the group with 10 points.

SNU was led by Xavier Alexander with 32 points. Four others scored in double digits. Deonta Black added 18 points A.J. Thomas had 15 points, Jon West and Jeremy Lightfoot each added 13 points.

The Storm led for the first seven minutes of play before Williams knocked down a three pointer to take the lead (19-17). From there, the Evangels went on a 16-6 run to take a 33-23 advantage with just under eight minutes in the half. SNU cut the Evangels lead to four points at intermission (48-44).

SNU came out strong in the second half, knotting the score with 16: 40 to play. They used a 17-7 run to take a 10- point lead (71-61) with 10:20 left in the game.

With a minute to play MACU was down by seven points (95-88). MACU used a 9-3 run, including a clutch three-pointer by Langster, to come within three points of the lead with four seconds remaining.

While SNU inbounded the ball under the basket a questionable intentional foul was called on Corey Raney, sending Thomas to the line. Thomas knocked down both free throws, sealing the game for the Crimson Storm.

MACU is back in action on Monday when they travel to Oklahoma City University. Tip-off is set for 8 p.m.