Box Score

The Indiana University Columbus Crimson Pride fell at home Tuesday night, dropping a conference matchup to Indiana University Kokomo 97-74 at Circle K Fieldhouse at Nexus Park.

IU Columbus struggled to find offensive rhythm early, shooting just 20 percent from the field in the first half as Kokomo built a 48-18 halftime advantage. Despite the slow start, the Crimson Pride showed resilience after the break, outscoring the Cougars 53-49 in the second half and playing with improved pace and confidence.

The Crimson Pride found more success attacking the paint and pushing the tempo in the second half, generating better looks and capitalizing at the free-throw line. Better execution on offense, coupled with aggressive defense showed the team's fight as they refused to back down despite the deficit.

Defensively, IU Columbus battled throughout the night but faced a hot-shooting Kokomo squad that connected on over 56 percent of its shots and controlled the glass.

Damontae Thompson overcame early foul problems and a scoreless first half to pour in 22 points in the second half, to go along with his 6 assists. Trevin Lieck added 21 points and 10 rebounds, and LaRenzo Hopkins reached double figures with 10 points.

IU Kokomo had 4 players in double figures, led by Patrick Matson with 21.

Coach Jared Brown: "IU Kokomo is a very good team, and we just made too many mistakes in the first half; that was disappointing. However, I am proud of our guys for coming out and playing some of our best basketball in the second half."

Next on the schedule: The Crimson Pride close out the regular season at St. Mary of the Woods on Saturday, February 21.