LAKEWOOD, CO - Both teams entered the gym tonight hungry for a win on CCU's home court. Ultimately, the Cougars found success, claiming the win with a final score of 74-64. 

Entering the first half the Cougars came out and capitalized on several offensive opportunities against UCCS, which earned them positive results within the first half. The Cougars captured the lead with just under 11 minutes left in the first half. Quickly after taking the lead, Noah Kon finished a powerful three-point shot that shifted the momentum of the game in the favor of the Cougars, with a score of 15-10. 

Three players created a powerful impact and tallied double digits in points within the first half. CCU was led by Noah Kon(12), DJ McDonald(11), and Jason Gallant(11) in the first period. 

Tenacious defense shown by the home team helped them to succeed in the first half and CCU led in rebounds 19-14. The Cougars exited the half up 40-29 looking to grow that lead in the second half. 

In the second half the Cougars came out with confidence, which was only built by the rumble of the fans throughout the gym. It was a physical battle between both teams, and the Cougars' strength in free throws was shown off against the Mountain Lions at 60%. Gallant found high success behind the free throw line tonight making 7 out of the 8 opportunities he was given in key moments. 

With 2:38 left on the clock UCCS called a timeout and came out of it with a full court press against the Cougars. McDonald was quickly able to adapt and break the press off a pass from Isaiah Alonzo from the sideline. The team found success throughout the rest of the game in quickly shutting down their opponents press. 

A key for the Cougars in solidifying a win tonight was their ability to keep the Mountain Lions at a distance on the scoreboard. Gallant led the team in points finishing the game with a total of 22 points. Alonzo also made a heavy impact both offensively and defensively on the court tonight totaling 11 points and 14 rebounds. 

CCU's gym was left with an animated atmosphere tonight as both Men's and Women's teams left with a win. The men's team will be back on the hunt for another win next week as they head to Spearfish, SD to take on Black Hills State University. Tip off will take place Thursday, January 26 at 7:00 PM MST. 

Colorado Christian University is a private Christian college based in Lakewood Colorado. The CCU Cougars compete in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference as an NCAA Division 2 program. CCU has 13 varsity teams.