Columbia, Mo. – The Columbia College men's basketball team improved to 12-5 on the season and 6-2 in the AMC with a hard fought 68-56 win over William Woods (Mo.).
 
The two teams were even in the first half, as neither team held a lead larger than five. That lead came with 3:57 remaining in the first half, when Ian Hodges knocked down a free throw for William Woods, giving them the 24-19 advantage. Columbia ended the half on an 8-0, capped off by a Cameron Vanleer buzzer beating 2-point field goal, giving the Cougars a 27-24 lead into the break.
 
Columbia came out of the gates strong in the second half, as they quickly extended their lead out to nine points (39-30) with 14:15 remaining after a Carson Parker field goal. William Woods fought back to within six-points (44-38), but back-to-back 3-pointers by Jack Fritsche gave Columbia the 50-38 lead. The Owls trimmed the deficit back down to nine with just over two minutes remaining, but Columbia was able to cruise to the 12-point win, 68-56.
 
By the Numbers:
20 – Columbia forced 20 William Woods turnovers
16 – The Cougars had 16 offensive rebounds
38-34 – Columbia won the rebounding battle and improves to 11-2 when out rebounding its opponent.
 
Columbia College Leaders:
Scoring Leader – Harrison Vickers (18)
Rebounding Leader – Cole Gerken (7)
Assist Leader – Harrison Vickers (3)
 
William Woods Leaders:
Scoring Leader – Four tied with 10
Rebounding Leader – Darius Yohe (13)
Assist Leader – Matt Burgess (3)
 
Up Next:
Columbia is back in action on Thursday, Feb. 4, when they host the Spartans of Missouri Baptist at 7:00 PM.