ADA, Okla. – The East Central University men's basketball team came up short in a close 78-76 loss to Northwestern Oklahoma State on Saturday afternoon. The Tigers let go of a first-half lead but fought their way back to tie the game in the final moments. However, a last-second jumper by the Rangers ultimately sealed the victory, handing ECU a tough defeat.
 
With the loss, the Tigers fall to 0-4 in GAC play, while Northwestern Oklahoma State earns their first conference win, improving to 1-3. ECU will return to Ada for a GAC matchup against Oklahoma Baptist University on Thursday, Dec. 18, at 7:30 p.m.
 
ECU started strong with a three-pointer from Jaden Miller, but the Rangers answered quickly with a 9-0 run to take a 9-3 lead. Hudson Linsenmeyer ended the run with free throws, and the Tigers gradually fought their way back, with Race Herr hitting a jumper with just under seven minutes left in the first half to give ECU a 21-20 lead. The Tigers built their advantage to as much as 10 points, leading 36-26 before Northwestern scored four quick points to close the half at 36-30.
 
The second half was a back-and-forth battle. Northwestern tied it at 40-40 early, and by the midway point, they had edged ahead 51-50. The Rangers then went on a 10-0 run, extending their lead to 60-50 with just under nine minutes to go. ECU responded with a late surge, outscoring Northwestern 13-2 to tie the game at 76, capped by a layup from Miller. However, a last-second jumper by the Rangers sealed a 78-76 win.
 
Despite shooting a season-high 53.8% from the field, the Tigers were outshot by NWOSU, who finished at 56%. The Rangers also held a 40-30 advantage in points in the paint and outrebounded ECU 29-24.
 
Hudson Linsenmeyer led the Tigers with 13 points on 4-of-8 shooting. Jaden Miller and Javaun Henderson each finished with 12 points, with Miller adding 9 assists and 4 steals. Brandon Mann contributed 11 points and 4 rebounds in the loss.