CCU Men's Basketball led Dallas Baptist 50-38 at the half Saturday, but couldn't hold their advantage through the second 20. The Cougars dropped their second-straight, losing 93-89 to drop to 0-2 on the season.

Christian found decent offensive execution against the Patriots, faring better from the field than they had the previous night against host St. Edwards. Still, CCU was crippled by a disappointing 22-turnover showing. Dallas Baptist scored 28 points off those Cougar giveaways. DBU also dominated Christian in the paint, scoring 40 points compared to 20 from CCU.

The Cougars jumped out to their commanding first-half lead after shooting 52% from the field and 63% from downtown. With newcomer Zach McLemore setting the pace, CCU nailed seven treys. By the end of the first period, McLemore had 11 points and junior Wayne McCullough had 15.
 
The 12-point lead Christian held at the break would evaporate, however, and the Patriots tied the game before ten minutes had passed.
 
CCU poured in 39 points in the final period and while six Cougars scored in double figures led by McCullough's 18, the offensive output could not cover for the defensive misgivings. DBU shot 67% over the final 20 minutes en route to 55 points. Mixed with the turnovers, it was a recipe for another loss.
 
"We are a team finding our way still. We have yet to grasp and play like a team that understands defense wins games," Head Coach Kevin Lubbers acknowledged. "We did not do what we needed to do defensively to win this game."
 
After losing their first two games, the Cougars return to Lakewood searching for answers. They face a tough test next week, albeit an exhibition, when they travel to the Air Force Academy to take on the Falcons. While the result might not impact the schedule, it will certainly be an opportunity to see who rises to the occasion.