FREE THROW LINE MAKES THE DIFFERENCE IN MEN’S BASKETBALL LOSS TO SOUTHWESTERN

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A strong second half wasn't enough as Avila fell in a close game to Southwestern at Mabee Fieldhouse on Saturday afternoon, 74-70.

Southwestern won the game from the free throw line, shooting 18-20 compared to Avila's 6-11.

The Moundbuilders ended the first half on a 14-5 run thanks in part to a buzzer-beating three-pointer as the teams headed into halftime. Avila was led in the first half by 10 points from Joe Kearney but just 36.7 percent shooting from the floor.

Avila came back in the second half, outscoring Southwestern by five in the final 20 minutes. However, A large halftime deficit and inconsistent free throw shooting doomed the Eagles.

In the final 9:30 of the game, Avila outscored Southwestern by five, but Southwestern knocked down all of its free throws in the final five minutes of play.

Xavier Kahube led the Eagles with 19 points and seven boards and was helped by 11 points and five assists from George Williams.

Reigning KCAC Offensive Player of the Week Brionne Williams contributed 11 points to the effort and Kearney added 12 of his own for the Eagles offense.

Avila dominated the game down low, outscoring Southwestern in the paint 46-24. But 19 percent shooting from behind the arc and 54.5 percent from the charity striped hindered Avila's efforts in the conference matchup. 

Avila (6-4, 3-2 KCAC) has one more home game before the new year, facing Saint Mary on Wednesday at 7:30 PM at Mabee Fieldhouse.

 (photo credit: Ali Nassir)