Second Half Surge Propels USAO to Victory at Southwestern Christian

BETHANY, Okla. – Saturday afternoon, the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (13-11, 10-8 SAC) collected their second win in a row with a 89-82 triumph at Southwestern Christian University (9-11, 7-9 SAC). With the win, The Drovers are 12-0 against SCU, dating back to February 23, 2019. Additionally, the Drovers own a 20-5 advantage in the all-time series against the Eagles.

The Drovers got off to a rough start, however they were able to cut the deficit to 23-21 midway through the first half. SCU was able to hold a slight edge over the Drovers in the final 10 minutes of the first half and took a 40-37 lead into the break.

Following halftime, both teams traded baskets for the opening minutes, but the Drovers were able to gain control midway through the half and held a 61-56 lead with 10 minutes to play. The teams traded punches down the stretch, but USAO was able to cling to the lead late in the game, to earn their 13^th win of the season. 

As a team, the Drovers shot 35-73 (.479) from the field, and just 3-22 (.136) from three-point range. In comparison, the Eagles shot 29-65 (.446) from the field, and 12-29 (.414) from deep. USAO held a 40-36 advantage in the rebounding battle, and the Drovers forced the Eagles into committing 17 turnovers, while only fumbling the ball 13 times themselves.

USAO was whistled for 13 fouls and SCU was called on 15 infractions. The Eagles went 16-18 (.889) from the free-throw line, while USAO went 12-18 (.667) from the charity stripe.

The Drovers played very unselfishly, distributing 27 assists as a team.

Science & Arts used a well-balanced attack to wear away at the Eagles in the second half, with four different players scoring in double digits. Gerard Makuntae recorded his seventh double-double of the season with 20 points and 11 rebounds. Samkelo Cele finished closely behind with 19 points and seven boards.

Jaden Harrell delivered the best performance of his career as he neared a triple-double. Harrell concluded with 17 points, seven rebounds, and dished out eight assists.

Cejay Mann tallied 14 points on 6-10 shooting from the field.

Tyler Cauley delivered an impressive performance off the bench, finishing with eight points, six rebounds, and four assists.

Dallen Forsythe added five points in nine minutes of action. Cade Allen closed with four points, four rebounds, and five assists. Logan Dolan recorded two points, three rebounds, and two assists.

WHAT'S NEXT?

The Drovers will return to Brisco McPherson Court on Thursday, February 9 as they host Langston University for USAO Faculty & Staff Appreciation Night. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:45 PM inside Drover Fieldhouse.

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