Offensive Woes Cost SWOSU Against Reddies

After scoring a season-high 90 points against Henderson State earlier this season, the Southwestern Oklahoma State University men's basketball team was in danger of a season-low on Thursday night against the Reddies, falling by a score of 59-55.

The Bulldogs jumped on top right out of the gate, scoring eight quick points and taking an 8-3 lead just four minutes into the game. Over the next 16 minutes of the half, however, struggled to find points and they finished the half just 6-of-24 (25.0%) shooting from the field. SWOSU's defense was able to keep the Dawgs in the game, however, and they trailed 26-20 at the break.

SWOSU stayed cold in the second half, scoring just 24 points in the first 19 minutes and building a 53-44 deficit in the game's final minute. Seven consecutive points by Rod Camphor helped SWOSU cut into the lead and Marin Zelalija knocked down a three pointer with 17 seconds remaining to get within two at 57-55.

On the ensuing Henderson State possession, Kenyan Borders knocked the ball away from a Reddie allowing SWOSU a chance to tie or take the lead. However, the excitement in Rankin Williams Fieldhouse got to Dominick Cornelius, who was called for travelling, giving the ball back to HSU. The Reddies knocked down two free throws and SWOSU was unable to get off a shot on their final possession allowing Henderson State to leave Weatherford with the victory.

Camphor led SWOSU with 14 points and six rebounds, while Zelalija had 12 and Mike Bradley added 10. The Bulldogs dropped their third straight game, dropping them to 9-15 on the year and 8-10 in Great American Conference play.

Henderson State (12-11, 7-10 GAC) was led by 17 points off the bench from Denzel Lyles and 12 from Andrew Ensley as they avoided a season sweep against the Bulldogs.

SWOSU will look to get back on track on Saturday when they host Ouachita Baptist at 4 p.m. in Rankin Williams Fieldhouse in Weatherford.