Box Score COLUMBUS, Ind. — IU Columbus men's basketball team showed resilience and fight on Saturday afternoon but ultimately came up short in a 79–63 loss to Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College at Circle K Fieldhouse.
The Pomeroys jumped out to an early advantage, taking a 40–27 lead into halftime after shooting efficiently and capitalizing at the free-throw line. IU Columbus worked to regain rhythm in the opening half while staying within reach.
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods continued to control the pace in the second half, outscoring IU Columbus 39–36 to maintain separation down the stretch. Despite the deficit, the Crimson Pride showed improved offensive flow and competitiveness after the break.
Trevin Lieck led IU Columbus with a team-high 19 points, adding six rebounds and converting 7-of-8 free throws. Jermayn Baxter finished with 14 points, while Damontae Thompson contributed 12 points, five assists, and four rebounds in an all-around effort.
Defensively, IU Columbus forced nine steals and limited SMWC to 36.8% shooting from three-point range, but the visitors' 51.0% overall shooting and a strong bench performance from Taray Howell, who scored a game-high 26 points, proved to be decisive.
The Crimson Pride remained aggressive at the free-throw line and continued to compete on both ends, but were unable to overcome the early deficit. IU Columbus will look to carry forward its second-half energy and execution as conference play continues.
Next Up: The team continues its homestand on Tuesday (Jan. 6) as they take on RSC foe, Brescia University (KY). Tip-off is set for 6:00 PM.
