ADA, Okla. – The East Central University men's basketball team hosted Southwestern Oklahoma State University in their final home game of the 2024-25 season on Thursday night. Despite the support of a packed Kerr Activities Center, the Tigers couldn't find their rhythm, ultimately falling 54-43 in a tough defensive battle.
 
With the loss, ECU drops to 7-14 in conference play, while SWOSU improves to 12-9. The Tigers will now focus on closing out the regular season strong with a crucial matchup against Oklahoma Baptist University on Saturday at 7:30 p.m.
 
It was a defensive battle to start the game as both teams struggled to find the basket early. SWOSU struck first with a three-pointer, but ECU responded with a three from Bryce Woolridge to tie things up. The first half remained tight, with the Tigers pulling ahead midway through on a 6-0 run to lead 15-9 after a layup from Jourdyn Grandberry at the 6:30 mark. However, missed three-pointers, turnovers, and missed field goals allowed SWOSU to find their rhythm, as they surged ahead on a 13-1 run to take a 22-16 lead into halftime.
 
The second half began with the Bulldogs extending their lead to 12 on an early 8-2 run. Despite the deficit, ECU fought back, cutting the lead to just four points at 43-39 after another layup by Grandberry with 4:30 remaining — the closest the Tigers had been all half. However, SWOSU sealed the game with an 11-4 run, preventing any late comeback attempt from ECU.
 
The Tigers struggled offensively, shooting just 34% from the field and hitting only three three-pointers. SWOSU shot slightly better at 37.5%, knocking down six three-pointers and outrebounding ECU 38-33.
 
Jourdyn Grandberry led the Tigers with 13 points, followed closely by Mark Rucha with 12 points. Godsgift Ezedinma grabbed a team-high eight rebounds. Seniors Godsgift Ezedinma, Bryce Woolridge, Ryan Kelly, and Ethan Channel were honored before the game in recognition of their contributions to the team.