Columbia, Mo. – The Cougar men's basketball team hosted the Freed-Hardeman (Tenn.) University Lions in an AMC matchup this evening. Columbia fought hard to keep up with the Lions, but were defeated by Freed-Hardeman, 66-68. The Cougars are now 16-9 on the season and 11-6 in conference play.
 
The Cougars were trailing 12-4 in the first five minutes of play but managed to find success late in the half and take the lead 36-35 before the break.
 
The second half became very physical as both teams battled for the lead staying only two-points apart from each other until the last five minutes of play. Freed-Hardeman took a seven-point lead late and the Cougars just could not catch up, handing Columbia the loss.
 
Key Moment
Freed-Hardeman knocked in all four final free throws to claim the victory.
 
By the Numbers
21-7 – Columbia's bench outscored Freed-Hardeman's bench by 14 points
19-26 – The Cougars shot 73% from the free throw line
3-19 – Columbia only made 16% of their attempts from beyond the arc
 
Columbia College Leaders
Scoring Leader – Thibault Benabid (17)
Rebounding Leader – Justin Shaw (9)
Assist Leader – Braden Wendel (3)
 
Freed-Hardeman Leaders
Scoring Leader – Bryan Battle (21)
Rebounding Leader – Bryan Battle  (8)
Assist Leader – Bryan Battle  (3)
 
Up Next
The Cougars will be back in action on Thursday, February 13 when they host the Missouri Baptist (Mo.) University Spartans in another AMC matchup. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m.