ADA, Okla. – The East Central University men's basketball team wrapped up their non-conference schedule hosting Dallas Christian College on Tuesday night, just ahead of Thanksgiving Break. Although it wasn't their most polished performance, the Tigers held strong to secure the 83-75 victory, improving their overall record to 3-3 as they prepare for the start of GAC play
 
Next week, ECU will return home to face Ouachita Baptist University for their first GAC matchup on Thursday, Dec. 5.
 
The Tigers started strong, opening with a quick 4-0 lead courtesy of Bishop Jones. However, both teams struggled to find their rhythm in a low-scoring first half. Despite some missed shots and turnovers on both sides, ECU managed to maintain a slim lead, going up by as much as seven points at 34-27 with two minutes left in the half. After a couple of made free throws by Dallas Christian, the Tigers went into the break leading 34-29.
 
Out of the break, ECU exploded with a 16-2 run, building their largest lead of the game at 50-31. Dallas Christian fought back, snapping a five-minute scoreless stretch with a three-pointer that sparked an 8-0 run, trimming the Tigers' lead. The teams exchanged baskets, but ECU kept the Crusaders at a safe distance, with Bishop Jones and Jourdyn Grandberry continuing to score.
 
Although Dallas Christian mounted a late comeback, cutting the lead to just two points at 67-65 with under five minutes remaining, the Tigers' defense and efficient free-throw shooting down the stretch were enough to maintain their lead to close out the 83-75 win.
 
Bishop Jones led the way with a dominating career-high 36 points, shooting a remarkable 12-of-13 from the field and 11-of-17 from the free-throw line. Jourdyn Grandberry also contributed 14 points, including an impressive 10-of-11 from the charity stripe. Mark Rucha set a career-high with six assists, while Nikk Williams grabbed a team-high seven rebounds.