HILLSBORO, Kan. – The Ottawa University men's basketball team got back on the winning track with an 89-66 victory over Tabor College in Tabor Gymnasium on Saturday afternoon.
The Braves jumped out to an early 12-6 lead over Tabor. A basket by
Najee Jones pushed the OU lead to 20-11 with 13:44 remaining in the first half.
The Bluejays chipped away at the Brave lead and were within four points, 30-26, with 7:37 on the clock. Ottawa responded with a 9-1 run and increased its lead to double figures, 39-27, on a
Keith Robinson basket. Scoring slowed down in the final 4:11 for both teams. Tabor was able to take advantage, ending the half by holding OU to two points and the Braves took a 41-33 lead into the locker room.
The Braves opened the second half on a 17-7 run and led 58-40 after a basket by
Jayden Hibbitt. A 3-pt field goal by Hibbitt increased the OU lead to 80-55 with 4:14 left in the contest. The Braves were able to empty their bench.
Sam Rollins took advantage of his opportunity. The sophomore guard was 3-for-3 from behind the 3-pt line in the final 1:54 of the game, scoring a career high nine points in OU's 89-66 victory.
Inside the Box Score
Ottawa shot 50 percent from the floor, 43.2 percent from behind the 3-pt line, and 65 percent from the free throw line.
- The Braves had four players in double figures, led by Jayden Hibbitt's 27 points. He was 9-for-15 from the floor.
- Deondre Buggage scored 14 points, Najee Jones had 12 points and nine rebounds, and Keith Robinson finished with 10 points.
- Jones led the Braves with four assists and three steals.
Who is Next
Ottawa (11-4, 7-2) returns to the court on Monday, Jan. 13 in Wilson Field House against Avila University. Tip off is scheduled for 7:00 p.m.
