LEAVENWORTH, Kan. - The Southwestern College Moundbuilders (18-10, 12-10) fell short in a thrilling contest against the University of Saint Mary Spires (19-9, 16-6), losing 61-62. The game was a back-and-forth battle, but it was the final moments that proved decisive for the Moundbuilders.

The Moundbuilders, trailing 29-23 at halftime, battled back in the second half but couldn't overcome the Spires' late-game push. Southwestern shot 37.9% from the field and struggled from behind the arc, making just 4 of 22 attempts (18.2%). Despite an efficient 86.7% from the free-throw line, the Moundbuilders were unable to convert in key moments.

Trey Abasolo led Southwestern with 16 points and 9 rebounds, along with Evan Barber who also dropped 16 points, including 8-for-9 at the free-throw line.

Zach Hidalgo contributed a double-double with 12 points and 13 rebounds, but it wasn't enough to secure the win.

For Saint Mary, Bryce Johnson led the way with 17 points, and Tre Alexander contributed 14 points and 5 assists. The Spires shot 39.3% from the field and 47.1% from beyond the arc, hitting crucial three-pointers in the second half to maintain their lead.

Southwestern's defense forced several turnovers, closing the gap, including a key steal by Justin Demaria late in the game, but the Moundbuilders' offensive struggles from deep ultimately proved costly.