ADA, Okla. – The East Central University men's basketball team faced off against Henderson State University on Saturday, falling 67-58 to the Reddies.
 
With the loss, the Tigers suffered their first GAC defeat of the season, while HSU improved to 2-0 in conference play.
 
Henderson State struck first with a three-pointer to take an early lead, but ECU responded with an 8-2 run to claim its first advantage. However, the Reddies quickly regained control, answering with a 7-0 run of their own. Although HSU never built a large lead, the Tigers were forced to play catch-up throughout the game. ECU came within one point on four occasions and tied the game at 24-all with 4:07 left in the first half. But the Reddies closed the period strong, outscoring ECU 13-5 in the final minutes to take a 37-29 lead at halftime.
 
In the second half, ECU continued to fight but struggled to find consistent offense as HSU extended its lead to as much as 15 points, reaching a 56-41 advantage with 8:23 remaining. The Tigers made a late push, cutting the deficit to 61-56 thanks to free throws, clutch shooting from Bryce Woolridge, and seven points from Bishop Jones. However, HSU responded down the stretch to secure the 67-58 win.
 
ECU had difficulty finding its rhythm offensively, shooting just 38.5% from the field, its second-lowest percentage of the season while HSU shot 45.6% and dominated on the boards, outrebounding the Tigers 40-30.
 
Mark Rucha led the offense with 21 points, shooting 8-of-15 from the field and 4-of-5 from the free throw line. He also tallied six assists and a team-high seven rebounds. Bishop Jones added 12 points, shooting 5-for-9, while Godsgift Ezedinma contributed 10 points, including two three-pointers.
 
The Tigers will return to action on Saturday, Dec. 14, at 7:30 p.m. when they host Oklahoma Baptist University at home.