CCU Men's Basketball defeated Hiwassee College 94-68 in their first game at the NCCAA National Tournament. Coach Lubbers stated that "The guys played well and stayed focused on the right things. We rebounded fairly well and guarded all game."
 
Leading Colo. Christian was senior Dimitri Saliba. Saliba racked up 20 points against the Tigers shooting 6-10 from the field, 1-2 three, and 7-9 from the line. Saliba finished the RMAC conference season All-Tournament Team, Second Team All-RMAC, and was named NCCAA First Team All-Region last weekend.
 
The Cougs and Tigers were close in the start of the game, battling it out for possession and taking quick shots. CCU's first 8 points were off fastbreaks and in the paint. Jacob Taylor was on fire in the first half scoring all of his 10 points. He ended the game with a double-double, 10 points and 11 rebounds. The Cougars made the right shots at the right time. Three CCU reserves, Stefan Hackethal, Brenden Mann, and Jeremiah Hanson put up 13, 12, and 12 points. Christian had a total of 41 bench points.
 
The Cougs held the lead for the most part in the first half, but really broke away with three minutes left in the half. It was 29-26, and the Tigers shot two three pointers missing both. Ty McGee got the ball and made a quick jump shot. Then Brett Brady hit one, but Jeremiah Hanson sealed the deal with a three that had the Cougs up 36-26. The half ended with an 11 point lead 40-29.
 
To start the second half off, Saliba had the first 11 points for CCU. He was unstoppable and dynamic making a three pointer, a few jump shots, and then a free throw. There was 15 minutes left in the game and the score was 51-33 CCU. From there on out blue and gold ran the court. They led by 20 points, then 25 with eight minutes left. Christian could not miss a shot. The game ended with CCU playing strong and winning 94-68.
 
CCU Basketball will play at 3:15 MST in the semifinals vs either #4 Central Baptist College or #5 Grace College. Check out ccucougars.com for live stream/live stats.