Columbia wins defensive battle against Hannibal
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Hannibal, Mo. – Columbia College men’s basketball team fought off a tough Hannibal-LaGrange College squad tonight, defeating the Trojans in an American Midwest Conference (AMC) contest, 53-52. The Cougars move to 7-13 overall and 1-3 against AMC opponents. The Trojans fall to 6-11 on the season and 1-3 versus league foes.
The teams combined for just 37 points in the first half with the Cougars leading 19-18 heading into the intermission.
The match saw Columbia and Hannibal tied up nine times with each team taking a five point lead at one point. With just over a minute to play Quintin Totta’s hook shot brought the Cougars within one. The Trojans immediately matched the basket at the other end. Josh Davis’ jumper seconds later put Columbia right back in it, as they trailed 52-51. With Hannibal in possession, and Columbia down one, the Cougars forced three straight fouls to put the Trojans in the bonus. At the line, Hannibal missed the front end of a one-and-one and Columbia grabbed the rebound. Totta again came through big, banking the game winning shot with 12 seconds on the clock. Hannibal had one chance to win the game, but Junior Greg Stegeman stood in the way. Stegeman blocked Hannibal’s shot attempt, giving Columbia the victory.
Columbia’s 35 rebounds compared to Hannibal’s 20 played a huge factor in the win.
Sophomore Taylor Evans 15 points led Columbia in scoring. Totta finished with 10 points and seven rebounds.
The Cougars return to the hardwood on Thursday, January 21st when they host Missouri Baptist University. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. in the Arena of Southwell Complex.