The Crusaders shot just 30 per cent from the field in the first half and only hit 1-10 from three-point range, but still led 33-30 at the break. UMHB would push the lead to as many as 10 points midway through the second half before Schreiner fought back to close to within two at 63-61 with 3:27 left to play. The Crusaders promptly scored five straight to take control of the game again and then iced the game from the free-throw line.
Corey Epps led UMHB with 15 points and 10 rebounds and Patrick Oliver also had a double-double with 12 points and 12 boards. Ryan Burgart added 12 points and Michael Blaylock had 11 points, nine rebounds and five assists for the Crusaders. Jonathan Young led Schreiner with 16 points and 11 rebounds and Jarel Hall added 13 points and seven boards. UMHB out rebounded the Mountaineers 52-43 and forced 20 turnovers. The Crusaders shot 52 per cent from the field in the second half and held Schreiner to 37 per cent shooting for the game.
The UMHB men will close out the regular season with a two-game road swing through Abilene next week. The Crusaders will face McMurry University in a 7:30 PM tip-off Thursday night before taking on Hardin-Simmons in a 3:00 PM start on Saturday afternoon.