Bethany, Okla. - The Bethel College men's basketball team had a tough go of it in Oklahoma this weekend.  Despite being up by 20 in the first half they lose to Southwestern Christian University 71-82.

Despite the loss the Threshers were a much better team tonight.  Every player that got minutes scored, nine total.  As a team they shot 49% from the field for the game but still struggled from deep only making 27% of those attempts.  On the strength of their shooting in the first half the Threshers got up 20 points but were unable to hold on to that lead ending the first half tied at 37.  

It must have been the baskets that was the difference, as Bethel shot 53% from the field and the Eagles of Southwestern Christian shot just 40% from the field in the first half.  In the second half the Eagles jumped up 20% shooting 60% from the field and the Threshers shooting cooled off to 42% and that was the difference as Southwestern Christian outscored Bethel College 34-45 to make the final score 71-82.

I am proud of our guys," head coach Alonzo Jamison commented.  "They played with a lot of heart.  But we need to tighten up the little things."

Bethel College got double figure scoring from two players tonight with Lee Griffin leading the way with 23 points and was followed by Justin Baldia with 11.  Griffin also led the team in rebounding grabbing 9 and Eric Regier dished out 4 assists.  

For Southwestern Christian (7-5, 5-1) Ray Hilliard did the most damage pouring in 24 points.  

Bethel College (1-10, 1-3) will get a much needed break until December 30 and 31 when they will host Missouri Valley College, Central Methodist University and Friends University in their Holiday Classic.  Game times for Friday, December 30 are at 5 and 7 p.m. and on the 31st game times are set for 1 and 3 p.m.   Bethel College will play the late games on both days.