Drovers Fight Hard but Fall Short Against #8 Langston

CHICKASHA, Okla. – Saturday afternoon, the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (6-10, 4-8 SAC) suffered a 75-64 loss against No. 8 ranked Langston University (13-2, 9-2 SAC). 

The Lions led from start to finish as they claimed their eighth win in a row, leading by as many as 15 points midway through the second half.

Langston jumped out to an early lead and was red hot on offense. The Lions took a 38-30 advantage into halftime after shooting a blistering 16-22 (.727) from the field, and 3-7 (.429) from three-point range. In contrast, USAO shot 10-27 (.370) from the field and only 1-10 (.100) from beyond the arc. The Drovers were able to keep score within striking distance thanks to their ability to knock down 9-of-12 free-throw attempts.

Following the break, the teams exchanged runs, and the Drovers continued to keep the Lions within reach. USAO trailed 57-44 midway through the second half and trimmed their deficit to eight points (70-62) with 2:01 to play in the game. However, Langston closed the game strong and held off the USAO comeback attempt.

USAO's offense closed the game shooting 21-51 (.412) from the field, 3-17 (.176) from beyond the arc, and 19-30 (.633) from the free-throw line. In comparison, Langston University shot 28-49 (.571) from the field, 4-12 (.333) from deep, and 15-23 (.652) from the charity stripe. 

The Drovers scored 32 points in the paint and hauled in 23 rebounds. In comparison, the Lions scored 40 points in the paint and grabbed 42 rebounds. 

USAO committed only six turnovers, which led to seven points for LU. Meanwhile, the Lions fumbled the ball 11 times, resulting in 13 points for the Drovers.

USAO was whistled for 16 fouls, while Langston was called for 25 violations.

Four different Drovers scored in double figures, led by Mohand Ammad's 17 points. Ammad also recorded a team-high of three steals. Lendy Holmes scored 12 points, followed by Ryein Kennedy and Cade Allen with 11 points each. Kennedy also grabbed a team-high of six rebounds. 

Tre Edwards tallied six points and four rebounds in his first start of the season. Tyler Cauley scored four points and grabbed three rebounds. Jaden Harrell scored three points and dished out three assists. 

WHAT'S NEXT?

The Drovers will return to Brisco McPherson Court on Monday, January 13 as they host a double-header against Central Christian College. The women's game is scheduled to tip-off at 5:00 PM CT, followed by the men's game at 6:45 PM CT inside Drover Fieldhouse. 

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