WINFIELD, Kan. — The Southwestern College men's basketball team fought until the final whistle but came up just short in a 78-77 loss to Friends University at Stewart Field House.
The Moundbuilders (18-9, 12-9) were neck and neck with the Falcons (21-6, 17-4) throughout, but a late defensive stand by Friends proved to be the difference.
Justin DeMaria led Southwestern with 17 points on 7-of-13 shooting, while Zach Hildago controlled the glass with a double-double of 15 points and 14 rebounds.
Southwestern trailed 42-39 at halftime but stayed within striking distance behind the playmaking of Evan Barber, 12 points, 6 assists, and Trey Abasolo, 10 points, 5 rebounds.
Austin Hilton also provided a spark off the bench, drilling four three-pointers to finish with 12 points.
The game saw several lead changes down the stretch, with DeMaria converting a layup to pull the Moundbuilders within one in the final minute. However, Friends, led by Cahlese Lee's 26 points, held firm on the final possession to secure the victory. Abasolo's final heave at the buzzer was off by a fraction as it hit backbord and rim as the final buzzer sounded.
Southwestern shot 42.6% from the field and knocked down 11 three-pointers, but Friends' dominance in the paint, 32 points inside proved pivotal.
The Moundbuilders will look to bounce back when they face the Univirsity Of Saint Marry to finish the regular season on the road on Feb. 22, at 4 p.m.
