Box Score Park City, Kansas –
Defeating the 5th seeded University of Saint Mary Spires two days prior enable the Eagles to advance in the to the KCAC Tournament Final to face off against the #2 seed Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes. Looking to take another title in the 2024 season, the Eagles needed to jump out hot in order to push the Coyotes pace throughout the 40-minute game.
Losing the tip-off, the Eagles quickly fell behind to the Coyotes and were pressured to pick up their game and take better possessions. A fairly back and forth ball game until the 7th minute of play, the Eagles stepped up and stepped out, leaving the Coyotes behind and never looking back. Completely dominating from that moment forward, the Eagles put together an impressive run in the next 13 minutes of play, shutting down the Coyotes offense and bringing both sides of their play to light. Ending the first half of play leading 48-22, the Eagles were explosive offensively and looked to keep it going in the second half.
Heading into the second half with a 26-point lead, the Eagles had some breathing room and a strong sense of confidence. The Coyotes were the first to score in the second, but the Eagles replied with every scoring drive the Coyotes put up. Letting up on the gas slightly, the Coyotes were able to cu their deficit to 16 points with 11 minutes left, but that was all we saw from the Coyotes as the Eagles woke back up and went on to take the game 81-65.
This was the Eagles 4th KCAC Tournament Championship in 7 years and the experience in the Hartman Arena was evident. Jaden Lietzke came to play in the championship match-up, having himself this 3rd double-double in 3 games with 21 points and 13 rebounds. Kaleb Stokes and DJ Talton Jr. were right behind Lietzke with 10 points each, while Stokes ended his night with 8 rebounds. Talton Jr. reminded the crowd why he was named the KCAC Defensive Player of the Year with his 5 steals in 35 minutes.
UPCOMING EVENTS
The Eagles await the NAIA Selection Show this upcoming week top determine where they will be in the NAIA National Tournament as well as who they will face off.
