Tigers Pick up Win Over Cowley

Fort Hays Tech Northwest Men's Basketball knocked off No. 16-ranked Cowley Community College on Saturday afternoon, earning a 70–57 victory and securing their third conference win to close out the semester.

Tech struck first, jumping out to a six-point lead and forcing Cowley to call a timeout just over a minute into the contest. Cowley responded with a basket, but FHNW continued to push the tempo. A 6–0 run extended Tech's advantage to 19–8 with 12 minutes remaining in the half. Cowley gradually worked its way back, cutting the deficit to 22–19 with 6:30 to play. Tech responded down the stretch, regaining control and heading into halftime with a 35–25 lead.

Cowley came out aggressive to open the second half, scoring on a quick jumper followed by a breakaway dunk and forcing Tech to take a timeout just over a minute in. Tech would settle down offensively; however, it was Cowley pushing the pace this time. Cowley capitalized on the momentum with a 9–0 run, tying the game at 42–42 with 14:18 remaining. Tech would quickly take the lead again, with Cowley trailing just behind. FHNW would slowly push their lead out again, with a 12-4 run to take a 10-point lead, 60-50, with just under four minutes to play. Cowley attempted to chip away late, but each of their points would be matched by Tech as they eventually extended their lead out to 16 points with just under two minutes remaining. The game would end with a 13-point win for the Tigers, 70-57.

Looking at the stats, Tech's starters accounted for 86% of the team's scoring, with four of the five finishing in double figures. Jasiah Shields led the way with 15 points and five rebounds, Kaleel Kelly with 14 points, Matija Otasevic with a 13-point, 10-rebound double-double, and Marquintez Dixon with a 10-point, 10-rebound double-double.

The Tigers will return to play on January 3rd at Dodge City, where they will take on the Conquistadors.