Second Half Lead Slips Away Against #5 Langston University

CHICKASHA, Okla. – For the second game in a row, the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (4-4, 0-3 SAC) had a second half lead slip away against a top 15 opponent, ultimately suffering a 78-70 loss against No. 5 ranked Langston University (8-1, 4-0 SAC). The Drovers are now 15-13 against the Lions in head-to-head matchups since November 2008.

On Thursday, both teams traded baskets early on, but the Drovers managed to cling to a slim 18-17 advantage midway through the half. USAO finished the half strong and took a five-point lead into the break (36-31). 

Following halftime, the Lions began to claw their way back and pulled the score even at 37-37 with 17:37 remaining in regulation. As the teams continued to exchange points, the remained knotted at 48-48 with less than 12 minutes to go in the game. The Lions then began to pull away and knocked down free-throws in the final couple of minutes to wrap up the contest.

At the conclusion of the contest, USAO's offense shot 21-50 (.420) from the field, 8-26 (.308) from beyond the arc, and 20-33 (.606) from the free-throw line. In comparison, Langston shot 25-48 (.521) from the field, 5-11 (.455) from deep, and 23-35 (.657) from the charity stripe. 

The Drovers scored 22 points in the paint and hauled in 36 rebounds. In comparison, the Lions scored 36 points in the paint and grabbed 30 rebounds. 

USAO committed 17 turnovers, which led to 24 points for Langston. Meanwhile, the Lions fumbled the ball 11 times, resulting in only three points for the Drovers.

USAO was whistled for 27 fouls, while Langston was called for 30 violations.

Three Drovers scored in double-digits, led by Lendy Holmes with 17 points on 5-10 shooting from the field, including 4-8 from deep. Jamouri McCalister concluded with 16 points and seven rebounds, followed by Sam Faraday-Bensley with 13 points and six rebounds. 

Elijah Burney contributed seven points, five rebounds, and seven assists. Mohand Ammad finished with six points and three boards, trailed by Chris Yapo with five points and six rebounds. Steve Tatsiguia added four points and five rebounds. Bryce Cowns scored two points.

WHAT'S NEXT?

The Drovers will now head north to Central Christian College for a matchup on Saturday, Dec. 6. Tip-off is scheduled for 4:00 PM CT in McPherson, Kan.

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