WINFIELD, Kan. (AP) — Wednesday, January 31, 2024, inside historic Stewart Field House, the No. 9-ranked Southwestern College (18-2, 13-2) men's basketball team delivered a commanding 97-71 victory over Avila University (3-14, 2-13).

Cevin Clark, the NAIA's No. 1 overall scorer at 27.4 points per game, needing just five points to reach the milestone of 2,000 career points at Southwestern College. Clark wasted no time, scoring five points in the first three minutes of the game.

"We are happy for Cevin," said, Head Coach, Matt O'Brien. "He is a great teammate and always happy for others and this team loves celebrating his success."

Southwestern's offense went on to overpower Avila, shooting 50 percent from the field. The Builders never played from behind and the largest lead grew to a 34-point gap in the second half before winning, 97-71.  

"Tonight was a great team," said O'Brien. "I was thankful to have the entire team contribute to the win."

Southwestern dominated the paint, outscoring Avila 46-24 in points in the paint, underscoring the inside presence of Zack Hidalgo and Mason Thiessen. Hidalgo secured 13 rebounds and five points, while Thiessen snatched eight rebounds and 10 points.

The Moundbulider defense held the Eagles to 40 percent from the field and forced 11 turnovers.

The bench strength of Southwestern proved pivotal, outscoring Avila's bench 42-34.

Clark finished with 28 points. Justin DeMaria had 19 points off the bench.

Andrew O'Brien, the KCAC's top assist leader, finished with a double-double, 10 points and 13 assists. Jarvis Jennings had 10 points and six rebounds.

Also part of the Southwestern bench presence, Trey Abasolo finished with 11 points.

Southwestern is on the road this Saturday, Feb. 3, at Sterling College (10-10, 6-9), tip off at 7 pm.