Late run falls shorts in Hawks' conference opener

A late rally by Rockhurst fell short as the Hawks opened conference play with a 76-68 loss to Southwest Baptist Thursday night at Mason-Halpin Field House.

The Hawks went on a 10-0 run in the final four minutes to pull within three points, 70-67, of the Bearcats with 1:30 left to play. SBU made four free throws in the final minute to hold off Rockhurst.

Baptist scored 12 second-chance points in the first half to take a 40-29 halftime lead. The Bearcats ended the opening half on a 21-11 run.

"I was frustrated in the first half after they won the battle in the paint both on the glass and on loose balls. (Mitch) Ganote really was hungry to be the aggressor. We gave away some possessions there which we can't afford to do," said Rockhurst coach Drew Diener.

Jake Auer led Rockhurst with 17 points and five 3-pointers. The sophomore guard connected on six-of-13 field goals.

Nick Volz tallied 16 points, seven rebounds and eight assists. Rich Byhre and Charlie Hoehne combined for 14 points and nine rebounds.

Inside the Box Score
• The Hawks shot 41.1 percent from the field (23 of 56).
• Baptist (6-1, 2-0 GLVC) made 12-of-27 three-pointers.
• Rockhurst posted 13 assists on 24 made field goals.

On Deck
Rockhurst (2-6, 0-1 GLVC) plays at Drury Saturday afternoon.

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