Oklahoma City, Okla. – The Central Christian College men's basketball team picked up a key Sooner Athletic Conference win on Saturday, going on the road and defeating the Oklahoma City University Stars 68-61. It was the first time the Tigers have defeated the Stars in their last six tries, just the second time to defeat the Stars on their home floor, and just the third time overall they have been on the right side of a decision against OCU.

It was a low scoring first half, with the Tigers trailing 27-26 as the teams headed into the locker room at the halftime intermission. Out of the break, the Tigers continued to apply defensive pressure, but found their form on the offensive end of the floor. The Tigers out-scored the Stars in the second half 42-34 to secure an eight point victory.

The Tigers were led in scoring by the Whitten twins. Chris led the way with 21 while Jaedon scored 10, the only other Tiger to score in double figures.  

Key Statistic

The Tigers held the Stars to just 31% shooting from the floor, and 22% from deep.

By the Numbers

For the game, the Tigers finished by making 23 of 61 (37%) of their attempts from the floor.

From deep they were 4 of 17 (23%)

At the free throw line, the Tigers were 16 of 21 (76%).

The Tigers won the turnover battle 15 to 17, but were outrebounded by the Stars 48 to 37.

Tiger Leaders

Points: Chris Whitten (21)
Rebounds: Isaiah Perry (12)              
Assists: Jalen Smith (2)
Steals: Isaiah Perry, Andre Shelby, Jalen Smith (2)
Blocks: Andre Shelby (2)
                                                                                                         
Coaches Quote:

It feels good to get back into the win column.  It's even better to get one on the road.  Our guys really battled throughout the game on the defensive side of the ball. OCU does a great job placing a lot of pressure on you defensively, with the way they attack the paint.  With us walking away only allowing 26 points in the paint, is a credit to our guys effort.   We still need to continue to improve on finishing plays and limiting teams to one shot.  We are starting to see some positive things on the defensive side of the basketball, we are hopeful we can continue to make strides towards what it will take to compete on that side of the ball in the Sooner Conference.
Offensively, the first half, we had a lot of careless unforced turnovers as well as some forced shots.  We did a better job executing after halftime, trusting one another, and playing side to side basketball.  We know we can continue to improve here as the season progresses.  
I thought Jaeden and Isaiah gave us some great production off the bench today.  We feel we have some guys that can produce off the bench, which we will need as the season goes on." – Coach Romero

Next Up
 
The Tigers (3-4, 1-1), will be back at home this Thursday, hosting the Barclay College Bears. Tip-off is scheduled to be at 7:30 following the women's game.