OTTAWA, Kan. — Southwestern College couldn't hold off the Braves' late rally, falling 73–71 on the road to Ottawa University inside Wilson Field House in KCAC play.

The opening half was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams trading control until the Moundbuilders closed the period on a decisive 9–2 run to create separation and take a 41–34 lead into the break.

Ottawa (6–3, 3–1 KCAC) responded quickly to start the second half, stringing together a surge to move ahead 49–45 with 15 minutes remaining. Southwestern (5–3, 1–3 KCAC) countered and regained momentum, building a 57–51 advantage with 11 minutes to play.

From there, the game tightened as Ottawa chipped away, pulling within 69–67 entering the final two minutes, and the Braves' late-game momentum carried them to escape with the 73–71 victory.

Wyatt Bell paced the Moundbuilders with 19 points, seven rebounds and two assists. Zach Hidalgo dominated the glass with 16 rebounds to go along with 11 points. Evan Barber added 12 points and four assists, while Nigel John contributed 10 points and six boards. Off the bench, Austin Hilton delivered 12 points and six rebounds to spark Southwestern's depth.

The Moundbuilders return to action on Saturday, Dec. 6, when they host Avila University (7–3, 2–2 KCAC) at 3 p.m. inside Stewart Fieldhouse.