COLUMBIA, Mo. - The Columbia College men's basketball team earned a non-conference win over Ottawa University (Kan.) this evening by a final of 88-79.

The Cougars improve to 9-4 on the season. This victory marks the 1,000th program win for the Columbia College men's basketball program since the program's inception in 1974.

The squads were evenly matched in the first half of action as Ottawa shot 51 percent from the field, while Columbia shot 47 percent. Both teams accumulated 16 points in the paint.

Back-and-forth baskets were traded in the first six minutes of play, as Columbia led 17-10 with 14:28 on the clock.

The Braves went on a 7-0 run to tie the contest at 17-17, but two back-to-back three pointers from the Cougars put Columbia back on top, 23-17.

With 6:02 remaining in the opening half of play, Ottawa took the lead which was ultimately held into the half.

The Braves held a 44-41 advantage into the locker-room.

In the opening half, Collin Parker led all scorers with 15 points (7-12 FG), also pulling down six rebounds. Kai Steinman followed with eight points, dishing out five assists.

The Cougar defense held the Braves to 39 percent from the field in the final half, while shooting 48 percent themselves.

Columbia scored seven points out of the half, recollecting the lead, up 48-45.

The Cougars took a 10 point lead with 12:49 remaining in the contest, up 61-51.

Ottawa edged back, scoring six quick points, and eventually tied the contest at 62-62.

Regaining the lead for the final time, Columbia posted a 72-68 advantage after a made three pointer from Nate Brandt.

The Cougars posted their largest lead of the contest with 2:44 in regulation, 83-70.

Columbia earned their ninth win of the season over Ottawa by a final of 88-79.

Kai Steinman posted a career-high of 27 points, while also dishing out six assists.

Collin Parker added a double-double, recording 25 points and 11 rebounds.

Carson Parker also added a double-digit point total with 10, bringing down five rebounds.

Columbia returns to action on January 2 as they host Central Christian College of the Bible at 7:00 p.m.