Men's Basketball
The Men's Basketball Team advanced to the NCCAA National Tournament for the second straight year after they defeated Mid America Christian University in the Regional Championship game, 81-76. The Patriots improved to 15-15 overall, while MACU fell to 9-24.
DBU came out smoking in the first half and on a mission to put the game away early after they shot an astounding 58 percent from the field. Senior Manny Montano led the way with his play in the post area, after he posted 15 points on seven of eight shooting to wrap up his first half of play.
The Patriots also played aggressive man-to-man defense forcing the Evangels into 12 turnovers and holding them to 41 percent shooting from the field. With their play at the offensive end of the court and defensive intensity, the Patriots were able to open up a 41-30 lead heading into the break.
MACU, however, who is coming off a NCCAA Division II National Championship last season, fought their way back into the game during the second half. The Evangels used a 10-0 run to tie the score, then had a chance to take the lead, but the Patriots were able to make the necessary stops to keep the score tied and retake the lead.
Freshman Braxton Adamson continued his hot shooting and played a key role in keeping the Patriots ahead throughout the second half. Adamson connected on four of six three-point attempts in the second half to help lead the charge and with 30 seconds left in the game Senior Nick Michels sealed the deal with a break away lay up.
DBU for the game shot 56 percent from the field, connected on seven of 13 beyond the arch, and knocked down 71 percent of their free throw attempts. The Evangels shot 45 percent from the field, 27 percent from the three-point line, and knocked down 83 percent of their charity shots.
Montano was the high scorer for the Patriots after he finished his night with 20 points, while Michels had 16 points and eight rebounds. Adamson wrapped up his night with 14 points and two assists.
The Patriots, who will be the number four seed, will be in action again when they travel to Oakland City, Indiana, to take part in the NCCAA National Tournament starting on March 18. DBU will play their first round game against Asbury College, at 3:00.
