KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Ottawa University men's basketball team dropped a 95–75 decision to Avila University Wednesday night at Mabee Fieldhouse.
First Half
Avila set the tone early, jumping out to an 8–0 lead behind strong interior play from Xavier Kahube and Joe Kearney. Ottawa struggled to find a rhythm offensively in the opening minutes, while Avila capitalized on turnovers and second-chance opportunities to steadily extend the margin.
The Eagles built their lead to double digits midway through the half and continued to control the paint and the glass.
Micah Willis provided a spark for the Braves with several timely baskets, including three three-pointers late in the half, but Avila answered consistently.
Avila closed the opening period on a strong run and took a commanding 51–34 advantage into halftime.
Second Half
Ottawa opened the second half with improved energy, as
Jackson Harding knocked down a three-pointer and
Jackson Esary converted a three-point play to trim the deficit to 54–40. However, Avila responded with another scoring surge, pushing the lead back to 20 behind balanced scoring and efficient shooting.
The Braves continued to battle, getting baskets from
Rich Martelly,
Elijah Mason, and
Sam Rollins down the stretch, but Avila maintained control throughout the half. The Eagles stretched the lead to as many as 28 points before settling for the 95–75 final.
By the Numbers
- Micah Willis led Ottawa with 14 points.
- Micah Willis also tied for the team lead in rebounds with five.
- Jackson Esary dished out a team-high five assists.
- Ottawa shot 40.8% from the field and 80.0% from the free-throw line.
- Avila shot 52.8% from the floor and held a 46–32 rebounding advantage.
- Xavier Kahube paced Avila with 21 points and 11 rebounds.
Who is Next
Ottawa (8-7, 4-5) returns to the court on Saturday, Jan. 10 in Wilson Field House against Tabor College. Game time is set for 4:00 p.m.
