COLUMBUS, Ind. – The IU Columbus men's basketball team fell to a high-powered Saint Mary-of-the-Woods squad, 103-71, in a tough home loss Saturday afternoon at Circle K Fieldhouse. Despite strong individual performances from Owen Law and Damontae Thompson, the Crimson Pride struggled to contain the Pomeroys' offensive attack and rebounding dominance.
The game started with IU Columbus facing an uphill battle, as Saint Mary-of-the-Woods quickly established control behind their efficient scoring and inside presence. The Pomeroys shot 48.6% from the field and 40% from three-point range, while also overwhelming IU Columbus on the boards with a 56-33 rebounding advantage.
In the first half, SMWC surged ahead, outscoring IUC 58-34 behind the dominant play of Shon Tupuola, who finished with 27 points on 10-of-13 shooting and 11 rebounds. Greg Jenkins was another key contributor, adding 21 points and six assists. The Pomeroys' ability to control the paint and move the ball effectively (23 team assists) made it difficult for IU Columbus to keep pace.
The Crimson Pride showed more fight in the second half, improving their execution, but were still out scored 45-37. However, the first-half deficit proved too large to overcome. IU Columbus shot just 36.6% from the field and 25% from three-point range (6-of-24), struggling to find consistency against a tough defensive opponent.
Owen Law led IU Columbus in scoring with 22 points on 9-of-17 shooting, while Damontae Thompson contributed 15 points, four rebounds, and three assists. Ben Sylva added nine points and six rebounds, and Chase Ridao provided a lift off the bench, going a perfect 5-for-5 from the free-throw line.
One of the key challenges for IU Columbus was their inability to control the boards, as the Pomeroys consistently created second-chance opportunities and extended possessions. The Crimson Pride did find success at the free-throw line, converting 13-of-16 attempts (81.3%), but it wasn't enough to close the gap.
Despite the loss, Saturday was still a win for IU Columbus, as the game served as an opportunity to celebrate Black History Month. The event saw a great turnout, with a strong and engaged crowd that helped create an electric atmosphere at Circle K Fieldhouse.
"Today gave our players and our community an opportunity to celebrate the importance of education and leadership." said IU Columbus Athletic Director Zach McClellan. "Our hope is that the youth in attendance, who represent the future of Columbus, enjoyed an exciting day of basketball while being recognized for their achievements."
Assistant Athletic Director Matt McCarroll also gave a special shoutout to Damontae Thompson, Deylon Johnson, and LaRenzo Hopkins for their leadership off the court. The three student-athletes spent time throughout the day speaking to students in the community about the importance of academics and staying true to themselves. Their words and presence left a lasting impact, reinforcing the values of education, perseverance, and self-identity.
The Crimson Pride look to make adjustments and prepare for Tuesday night's match-up, the second to last game of the year. IUC will face RSC foe, IU Kokomo at home at Circle K Fieldhouse. Tip-off is set for 5:30 PM.
