Colorado Christian opened up conference play on Saturday night as they faced off against Colorado School of Mines. The Orediggers finished with the last laugh as they were able to hang on for a 64-63 victory in overtime over the Cougs. It was a Jekyll and Hyde story on the offensive side of the ball for CCU as they had dramatic splits between the first and second halves.  
 
The first half was a good one as CCU jumped out to an early lead over Mines. By the end of the first quarter, they had pushed their lead out to six points by a score of 22-16. They finished the first half shooting nearly 52% from the field and hit on five of 11 shots from downtown. Claire Paxton led the team in first half scoring with 10 and also was able to grab seven rebounds. At the half, CCU led 36-30,
 
The second half was a different story, as they were unable to get anything going on the offensive side. The defense did everything they could to maintain the lead, but the lack of offense was too much to overcome. The Cougars managed to score only five points in the third quarter, and 19 points total in regulation, but still had their chances to win late in the game. At the end of regulation, the game was tied at 55 and heading into overtime.  Both teams fought hard in overtime, but Mines finished with the slight edge as they secured the one point victory late with a made free throw.
 
Three Cougars finished the game in double figures led by Claire Paxton who finished with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 17 rebounds. Taylor Torres scored 13, and Kate Louthan added 11.
 
With the loss, CCU drops to 3-2 on the year and 0-1 in conference play. They will look to bounce back in their next game as they are traveling to Alamosa, CO on Friday to take on Adams State University. Tip is scheduled for 5:30PM MST.

DNL