Fayette, Mo. – The Columbia College men's basketball team competed against the 20^th ranked Central Methodist University Eagles in a nonconference match up tonight with the Cougars coming out on top of the Eagles 82-73, putting their season record at 1-2.

The Cougars came out strong in the first half, taking the lead from a three-point shot made by Braden Wendel and never looking back. Columbia held their biggest lead at 14 points midway through the first half. CMU had their chance to get back on the board going on a six-point scoring run but it was halted by a free throw from Casius Bell, Jr. putting the Cougars back on track as they took an 11 point lead into the locker room.

The Cougars scored the first basket of the second half, within the first 25 seconds, off a three pointer by Jorge Bueno to extend their lead. The Eagles had a last minute push to close the gap but it was ultimately thwarted by Columbia, who took the upset.

Key Moments
The Cougars held at least a nine point lead on the Eagles for a majority of the contest. Columbia made 15 of their 19 three point attempts, compared to Central Methodist who made three of their 19 attempts.

By The Numbers
27- Field goals made by Columbia
37-27 – Central Methodist's bench outscored Columba's bench
14- Columbia's points off turnovers
13- Three pointers made by the Cougars
9- Offensive rebounds by the Eagles
18-8 – Columbia dished out ten more assists than the Eagles

Columbia College Leaders
Points – Casius Bell, Jr. (22)
Rebounds –  Thibault Benabid (8)
Assists –  Justin Shaw (7)

Central Methodist Leaders
Points – Isaiah Burton (19)
Rebounds – Christian Soderholm (10)
Assists – James Byrd II (5)

Up Next
The Cougars are back on Thursday, November 7^th when they host the Westminster College Blue Jays in a nonconference matchup. The game is set to begin at 7 p.m. in the Arena of Southwell Complex.