Marshall, MO - The Columbia College men's basketball team traveled to take on the Missouri Valley College Vikings tonight in the Vikings' season opener. After a tight first half, the Cougars outplayed the Vikings in the second half and claimed the 79-68 win. 

The Cougars led the Vikings in every shooting statistical category, while also leading in rebounds (44-31) and assists (24-17). 

The Vikings took the early lead in the second half as they built a five-point lead on two quick made baskets. 

The Cougars battled back with points from Harrison Vickers, Collin Parker, and Beau Washer to take a 42-41 lead. 

From there, both teams traded points until Collin Parker hit a three pointer to put the Cougars up 55-50, forcing a timeout from the Vikings. 

Columbia called its second timeout of the half as they led 69-64 with less than three minutes remaining. 

The Cougars outscored the Vikings 10-4 in the closing moments of the game. 

Collin Parker finished with a double-double of 26 points and 11 rebounds as he went 6-8 from beyond the arc. 

Harrison Vickers followed with 24 points. 

Trendon Tisdale contributed 10 assists with five points, and Beau Washer totaled eight points with five rebounds. 

Carson Parker had seven points with seven rebounds. 

NOTES: Columbia holds a 34-12 all-time record against Missouri Valley...Collin Parker's 26 points was one shy of tying his career-high...