ABERDEEN, SD – The Emmanuel Men's Basketball team continued action tonight in the Small College Basketball Champions Classic against preseason ranked #1 Northwest Missouri State University. This match up saw 8 ties and 11 lead changes, but ultimately the Lions prevailed 75-72! With the win, the Lions improve their record to 3-1 on the season. 
 
In the first half, the Lions shot 8-22 from the field (36.36%) and 4-9 (44.44%) beyond the arc. They were 5-8 from the charity stripe. At the half, the Bearcats led by 8, 33-25.
 
In the second half, the Lion's offense put on a show, scoring 50 points! The Lions shot 12-19 from the field (63.16%), 2-3 from beyond the arc, and an impressive 24-29 (82.76%) from the charity stripe. This was enough to hold the Bearcats off and give the Lions a 75-72 victory. 
 
Senior, KJ Jones II led the way for the Lions with 30 points, 5 rebounds. 3 assists and 2 steals. Junior, Chris Dees contributed 17 points, 3 rebounds. 2 assists, and 1 steal. Redshirt sophomore, Nate Gordon added 10 points, 6 rebounds, and 1 block. 
 
In the game, Emmanuel broke two tournament records. Senior, KJ Jones II set the record for Free Throws Made with 17. The previous record was 12. The team as a whole set the record for 
Team Free Throws Made with 29. The previous record was 27.
 
The Lions will continue their road trip and take part in the Puerto Rico Classico in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico. They'll be back in action on Monday against the University of Puerto Rico – Mayaguez. 
 
For more information on Emmanuel University athletics, visit goeulions.com.