Bartlesville, OK –

On Saturday, March 4, the #1 Eagles faced the #5 University of Saint Mary Spires here in Mueller Sports Center for the KCAC conference tournament semifinal.

The Spires were quick off the tip-off, jumped ahead quickly on the Eagles. Taking a 17-point lead over the Eagles, put the Eagles up against the wall. With the help of Dylan Phillip and 14-points in the first half, the Eagles were able to cut their deficit to 4 heading into the first half. Along Phillip, Lietzke was able to accumulate 5 rebounds in attempt to keep possession of the ball. Ending the first half 44-40, the Eagles needed to come out of the locker room hot in order to take the lead.

Starting the second half looking to gain ground, the Eagles brought the heat and quickened their offense in order to score first in the second. Putting pressure on the Spires defense was exactly what the Eagles needed in order to take momentum of the game and take the lead early in the second. Not looking back, the Eagles were explosive in the pain and took complete control of the game with the time left. Jaden Lietzke and Kaleb Stokes were crucial for the Eagles comeback in the second, both scoring 16 points in the final 20 minutes of play.

KEY PLAYERS

Jaden Lietzke: 26 points, 10 rebounds, 1 assist

Kaleb Stokes: 16 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists

Dylan Phillips: 14 points, 2 assists

UPCOMING EVENTS

The Eagles will now face Kansas Wesleyan University for the KCAC conference tournament final held in Wichita, Kansas on Monday, March 4 at 8:00PM.