McPherson, KS – Tiger's open up SAC play, taking on Stars of Oklahoma City University.
After missing the last 3 SAC games the Tigers finally got to play in the long anticipated SAC game.
In their series history the Tigers and Stars always are a nail biter as the largest margin of victory has been 10 points on either side and 4 of the 6 games have been decided by two or fewer possessions.
The awaited start of conference play was well worth it as both teams would get their first taste of SAC action and would make it a competitive 40 minutes of basketball. The Tigers and Stars would trade baskets back and forth, but the Tigers would have a few more key stops and scoring runs to put themselves ahead at half 33-27.
Coming out of the half the Tigers knew they would have their hands full with the Stars. However the Tigers would get out to a good jump and get their lead up to double figures and start to pressure the Stars to make a comeback. Just like previous games the Stars would have a stretch of their own and get the game within a possession with 10 minutes to go. After a back and forth battle the Tigers would start to separate themselves with a few possessions and it would be enough to keep the Stars from seriously threatening and Tigers walk away with their first SAC win of the season 74-67.
"I thought our guys showed a lot of toughness tonight. We were definitely tested physically and mentally throughout the game, our guys found ways to respond in a lot of adverse moments. Defensively, we gave a great effort. We were outsized in some positions and we found ways to compete. Offensively, we had a season high in turnovers-credit to OCU for creating some of those, but outside of that, we did have many possessions where we were able to make them work and get some really good looks for each other. I am so happy for our guys to start conference play with a victory. This season has been crazy for everyone."
With the win Tigers move to 7-1 (1-0 SAC), extend their win streak to 5 and remain perfect at home!
Tigers will be back in action on January 26
th when they take on Langston University at Coyle, OK.
Go Tigers!
#Ambush
