Bartlesville, OK - 

The #5 Men's Basketball team hosted the Evangel University Valor this past Wednesday for their final regular season home match-up. Previously facing off against the Valor, the Eagles took a 3 point victory against a quality shooting Evangel team. 

Both teams having lock down defense in the first half resulted in a 37-37 ball game with 20 minutes left of play. A physical game between the two, both the Eagles and the Valor were both aggressive in the paint and forced pressure with every opportunity. Taking the lead early into the second half, the Valor lit up the 3 point line and forced the Eagles to keep up with a fast offense.

Yashi McKenzie was a spark for the Eagles with 10 minutes left of play, forcing Valor turnovers and settling in the Eagles offense. A shifting lineup from the Eagles played off in their favor, as they stayed fresh and kept up with the Valor shooters. Taking the lead for the frist time in the half, the Eagles were up by 2 with 8 minutes to go. A back and forth game for the next 5 minutes, gave way to a 71-64 Eagle lead with 1:46 left on the board. A minute left and control of the game, the Eagles took the win over the Valor 75-69. 

Temaje Izuagbe was vital to the Eagles win over the Valor, scoring 18 points in 23 minutes of play, while accumulating 4 rebounds and shooting 57% in the paint. Jaden Wilson & Yashi McKenzie were also impressive on the night, both scoring 13 points and accumulating 4 rebounds. 

The Eagles improve to 24-3 on the year & travel to McPherson College this upcoming weekend to conclude their 2025-2026 regular season play.