Columbia, Mo. – Playing in their first game of 2021, the Columbia College Cougars men's basketball team picked up win No. 6 on the season, with a 77-72 victory over Missouri Valley College on Monday.
Both teams came out strong, as they combined for 73 first half points and neither team held a lead more than five-points. The first half consisted of three ties and four lead changes. Columbia held a slim 37-36 lead at the break.
After the Vikings tied the game at 48-48 with 14:50 remaining, the Cougars went on a 13-2 run to open an 11-point lead, their largest of the game. The Vikings came storming back and immediately went on a 12-0 run to take the 62-61 advantage with 5:51 left.
The two teams traded a couple buckets the game was tied at 66-66 with 3:21 remaining. The Cougars scored 11 of the last 17 points of the game to earn the hard-fought victory.
By the Numbers:
- 20 – The Cougars had 20 offensive rebounds.
- 13 – Columbia drained 13 shots from behind the 3-point line, including six from Jack Fritsche.
- 12 – The Cougars dished out 12 assists on 25 made baskets.
Columbia Leaders:
Missouri Valley Leaders:
- Points: Zion Fortune (19)
- Rebounds: Jace Lance (7)
- Assists: Jace Lance/Cameron Boyd (4)
- Blocks: Jonathan Hall (2)
- Steals: Four tied with one
Up Next:
The Cougars will play in their first American Midwest Conference game on Thursday, when they take on Missouri Baptist in St. Louis. Tip-off is at 7:30. No fans will be allowed in the game.
