Box Score On a landmark evening that transcended the final score, the IU Columbus men's basketball program took its first steps into collegiate competition, falling to Saint Francis (IN) 104-61 in the team's inaugural game.
The scoreboard at the final buzzer told only a small part of the story on this historic night, as years of planning, community support, and determination culminated in IU Columbus's first-ever collegiate basketball contest. The significance of the moment resonated through NexusPark as the Crimson Pride stepped onto their home court, marking a new chapter in Indiana University Columbus athletics.
Deante Luster etched his name in program history, scoring the team's first points, while adding 11 points to his IUC debut. Gavin Dowling had a team-high 16 points on an efficient 8-of-12 shooting while pulling down 7 rebounds. Owen Law announced his presence with authority from beyond the arc, connecting on four three-pointers for 14 points, while Nathan Pickett added 7 points off the bench in a spirited effort.
Despite facing an experienced Saint Francis squad that shot 53.6% from the field, IU Columbus showed flashes of promise throughout the contest. Law's sharp-shooting and Dowling's interior presence provided glimpses of the program's potential, while the team's 72.7% success rate from the free-throw line demonstrated fundamental soundness.
Saint Francis's depth and experience proved decisive, as they built a 57-33 halftime lead and maintained control through the second half. The visitors dominated the rebounding battle 56-34, while IU Columbus worked through expected first-game growing pains with 22 turnovers.
As the final buzzer sounded, it marked not just the end of a game, but the beginning of a new era for IU Columbus athletics. The Crimson Pride will look to build on this historic night as they continue their inaugural season, with each game providing new opportunities to grow and develop the program's foundation. The Crimson Pride return to action Friday, November 1, at 5pm at Huntington University.
The IU Columbus athletic department extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Columbus community for their overwhelming support and enthusiasm. The packed stands, passionate cheers, and unwavering encouragement throughout the evening demonstrated exactly why this program was needed and why its future is so bright. This truly was a community-wide celebration of a new era in Columbus sports.
