Bench Accounts for 44 Points as USAO Defeats Central Christian

CHICKASHA, Okla. – Thursday night, the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (19-8, 14-7 SAC) bounced back with an 84-75 triumph against Central Christian College (12-15, 9-12 SAC). With the win, the Drovers have emerged victorious in 10 consecutive matchups against the Tigers, and USAO improves to 11-2 against CCC all-time, dating back to December of 2017. Additionally, USAO remains in fifth place in the Sooner Athletic Conference standings with one game remaining in the regular season.

Both teams shot the ball very well in the first half, but USAO was able to cling to a 44-42 lead after 20 minutes of action.

Following halftime, The Drovers began to gain some separation and led by as many as 14 with 11:07 to go in the game. The Tigers put up a good fight and kept the game within reach, but the Drovers remained strong and closed out the victory.

USAO's offense closed the game shooting 33-63 (.524) from the field, 6-16 (.375) from beyond the arc, and 12-16 (.750) from the free-throw line. In comparison, CCC shot 24-59 (.368) from the field, 11-30 (.367) from deep, and 16-23 (.696) from the charity stripe. 

The Drovers dominated the paint, outrebounding the Tigers 44-24, and USAO outscored CCC in the paint 48-14.

USAO committed 12 turnovers, which led to 13 points for CCC. Meanwhile, the Tigers fumbled the ball nine times, resulting in eight points for USAO. The Drovers were whistled for 14 fouls, while the Tigers were called for 17 violations.

Three different Drovers scored in double digits, led by Reggie Quezada with 24 points, on 9-16 shooting from the field. Quezada also hauled in eight rebounds and dished out five assists. Niieihii BlackBear was terrific off the bench, producing 15 points, four rebounds, and two steals. Ryein Kennedy continued to show improvement as a freshman, contributing 11 points and five rebounds in 14 minutes off the bench. Cejay Mann recorded nine points and four rebounds in 16 minutes off the bench. 

Jaden Harrell tallied six rebounds, five assists, and three steals. Logan Dolan concluded with five points, followed by Manny Gatkek and Jayden Patcha with four each. Cade Allen finished with two points. 

WHAT'S NEXT?

The Drovers will return to action on Saturday, February 24 as they host the regular season finale against Langston University. The double-header is scheduled to begin with the women's game at 2:00 PM CT, followed by the men's game at 3:45 PM inside Drover Fieldhouse. The Drovers will also be celebrating their senior class with their annual Senior Day ceremony.

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