Kokomo, IN: Four players reached double figures and helped propel the visiting Alice Lloyd College Eagles to an impressive 73-63 victory over the Indiana University Kokomo Cougars Friday afternoon. The contest was the second River States Conference matchup for both clubs.
In the first half, the defense was the order of the day as both teams were stingy on that side of the court. However, sparked by 13 points off the bench from sophomore Ben Soumahoro, and some timely buckets from junior center Colyn Sturgill, the Eagles would take a slim 34-31 at intermission.
In the second half, the Caney Creek crew would fight to hold the lead. For the majority of the way, the Kentucky boys would keep an advantage between three and six points. However, the Cougars would make a rally and lead 54-52 with 10:47 remaining.
Fortunately for the Eagles, senior guard Noah Young would sink some big shots to lead a resurgence. From that point, the Pipa Passes boys would use their balanced offensive attack, combined with an impressive defensive effort. This would enable the group to steadily pull away until the final buzzer sounded to sew up the big victory
For the victors (5-0; 2-0 RSC) sophomore Soumahoro would lead the way with 17 points (7-11 FG). He was followed in scoring by forward Damon Tobler, who was reliable all day long. Tobler sank 5-9 shots (2-3 3FG) and finished with 13 points. He also led the club by nabbing 8 rebounds and gaining 3 steals.
Young and Sturgill would contribute 12 points apiece. Young would lead the team with 6 assists while Sturgill added 6 boards. In addition, junior forward Will Philpot added 7 rebounds of his own.
Alice Lloyd shot 47.6 % (30-62) from the floor and 21.4 % (3-14) from behind the arc. They finished 83.3%% (8-14) from the foul line. The Eagles also gained 36 rebounds, while adding 12 assists, 6 steals, and 2 blocks.
IUK (5-2; 1-1 RSC) was led by Trequan Spivey with 22 points. His squad shot 35% (21-59) from the floor, and 28.6% (6-21) from behind the arc. They finished 100% (15-15) from the foul line, and also had 36 rebounds, 7 assists, and 3 steals.
The Eagles return to Pippa Passes for two non-conference contests next week. On Monday, November 22nd, they host Welch College at 5:00 pm. They follow that up one day later when they host Carolina University at 7:00 pm.