February 23, 2008

#18 Bearcats Clinch Share of MIAA Title With 76-71 Win

    BOLIVAR, Mo. -- Southwest Baptist University outscored upset-minded Pittsburg State University, 23-9, over the game’s final seven minutes to overcome a 62-53 deficit and rally for a 76-71 win Saturday (Feb. 23) at the Meyer Sports Center.
    The 18th-ranked Bearcats (19-6, 12-4 MIAA) clinched at least a share of the 2008 MIAA regular season title thanks to the win over the Gorillas (16-9, 7-9 MIAA), coupled with Missouri Southern State University’s 77-56 home loss to Northwest Missouri State University.
    Matthew Rogers led four SBU players in double figures with a game-high 21 points. D’Ante Harris added 14, while Jim Grabowski added 12 points and a game-high 12 rebounds. Brandon Burgette also chipped in with 11 points.
    Cory Abercrombie logged a double-double with 20 points and 11 rebounds, while Jeff Ivory contributed 12 points. Spencer Magana and Carlos Taylor added 10 apiece for the Gorillas.
    SBU outscored Pitt State, 26-10, at the foul line, including an 18-5 edge in the second half as the Gorillas were whistled for 24 personal fouls in the gam.