Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia College men's basketball team saw their four-game winning streak come to an end at the hands of Talladega (Ala.) on Wednesday evening, 79-61. The Cougars fall to 5-2 on the season and Talladega, who is receiving votes in the NAIA Men's Basketball Preseason Coaches' Poll, improves to 6-1.

The first 15 minutes of the game were as close as it could be, as the score was tied at 29-29 with 4:40 remaining in the first half. Talladega ended the half on a 16-2 run to lead 45-31 at the intermission.

In the second half, Columbia was able to cut the deficit down to 11 (60-49) with just under eight minutes remaining, but the Tornados answered with a quick 6-0 run to extend the lead back to 17. The Cougars were not able to close the gap any closer.

By the Numbers:
47-28 – Talladega held the rebounding advantage, including 12 on the offensive end.
16 – The Cougars forced 16 turnovers
7 – Seven Cougars scored at least one point

Columbia College Leaders:
Scoring Leader – Tony Burks (23)
Rebounding Leader – Tony Burks (7)
Assist Leader – Tony Burks (3)

Talladega College Leaders:
Scoring Leader – Darryl Baker (15)
Rebounding Leader – Amir Yusuf/Kamron Brice (8)
Assist Leader – Edwin Louis/Nate Pendarvis (4)

Up Next:
The Cougars are off until Jan. 4, 2021 when they host Missouri Valley inside The Arena of Southwell Complex. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM.