LAWRENCE, Kan. — Senior Wyatt Bell continued his strong start to the season, pouring in 22 points to lead Southwestern College to a 72-49 victory Saturday in their final game of the Ernie Stevens Jr. Classic, hosted by Haskell Indian Nations University.

The Moundbuilders came out firing in the first half, connecting on seven three-pointers to build an early cushion they would never relinquish. 

The Moundbuilders headed into halftime with a 7-point lead before starting the second half strong, stretching their lead to 14 just four minutes into the half. The Pirates would be kept at bay for the rest of the game, as they were only able to cut the lead to nine points halfway through the second half. The Moundbuilders would methodically close the game out, ending the game on a 21-9 run. 

Junior Evan Barber added 10 points and two rebounds, while Austin Hilton contributed six points and a pair of rebounds. Nigel John remained perfect from the field, scoring six points on 3-of-3 shooting, and Zach Hildago anchored the interior with five rebounds and four assists. Wyatt Bell added 8 rebounds and 6 assists to go along with his efficient 22-point performance, all of which were game highs

Southwestern's bench also provided key production, as Emery Eberhard added seven points in 11 minutes and Isaac Hoberecht chipped in five points and four rebounds.

As a team, the Builders shot an efficient 56.6 percent from the field and 39.1 percent from beyond the arc, while holding the Pirates to just 33.3 percent from the field. 

The Moundbuilders (4–0) will return home for their KCAC opener next Saturday, November 15, when they host McPherson College (2-2) at 3:00 p.m. inside Stewart Fieldhouse.