Stepney Scores 33 As Bulldogs Take 89-83 Win Over EOU

Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information

LA GRANDE, Ore. — The Montana Western men's basketball team moved to 4-1 on the season this evening after they earned a hard-fought victory over Eastern Oregon (1-4).

"Really proud of our team for staying together and winning on the road. We had a great week of preparation, and it showed in our performance tonight," Head men's basketball coach Pat Jensen said.

How It Happened

The first half set the tone for the Bulldogs as they built up a sizeable lead in the opening minutes of the game. A jumper from Abi Adedo combined with a jumper from Jalyn Stepney gave the Bulldogs an 11-point lead with 12:31 left in the half.

The Mounties closed the gap and the two teams remained knotted through the first half at 47.

The Bulldogs used a quick run with a three from Christian Pitcher paired with a double from Michael Haverfield to take an eight-point lead at 68-60 with 11:00 left in the matchup.

The Mounties fought their way back and the two teams would continue to clash, battling for a favorable position with neither able to grab a sizeable lead.

Stepney got the ball to fall in the bucket for some key points down the stretch, giving the Bulldogs a lead of six points with just 20 seconds remaining. Quincy Taylor sealed the victory by hitting a pair of free throws for the 89-83 win.

Notables

• The Bulldogs extend their win streak to three games over the Mounties, with tonight's being their second win this season.

• Stepney led the way with 33 points for the Bulldogs, shooting 10-15 from the field and hitting 11 of 12 free throws.

• Kevin Bethel dished out four assists.

• Adedo added 16 points with five boards.

• Jacksen Burckley led the way with six rebounds.

Up Next

The Bulldogs will remain in La Grande, Ore. for another game today against Walla Walla University (Wash.). Tip-off is set for 2 p.m. MT.