Trailblazers Clash With #12 Cougars In Loss

KOKOMO, IN – The Ohio Christian University Trailblazers carried their three game winning streak into Saturday with a tough test in front of them, as the squad traveled to face the #12 ranked Cougars of Indiana University Kokomo.

Showing their offensive firepower, the Cougars jumped out to a 10 point advantage eight minutes into the game, leading to an uphill climb for the Trailblazers. IU Kokomo led by as many as 16 in the opening 20 minutes prior to Ohio Christian cutting the deficit to nine at the break.

In the second half, the Trailblazers tried to get back in the ballgame, cutting the lead down to five points with 11:39 remaining in the game. The Cougars survived the push, however, as their offense quickly recovered to pull back ahead and seal the win.

The duo of Juan Woods (FR/Pickerington, OH) and Justin Barksdale (SO/Fishers, IN) continued to lead the Trailblazer offense on Saturday, as Woods finished with 13 points and three assists while Barksdale tallied 12 points and 11 boards. Jermaine Smith (SR/Terre Haute, IN) continued to play well following his return from injury, scoring 12 points off the bench.

"I am proud of our guys growth. IU Kokomo is a great team and they made us pay when we didn't execute," said Head Coach Casey Coons. "I know we will build off this and correct our mistakes as we move forward. I am so proud of the steps they are taking as a group."

Ohio Christian will have little time to recover, as they have a three game stretch over the next week, beginning Tuesday with a road trip to Midway University.

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