Oklahoma Panhandle State University (OPSU) Aggies and the Oklahoma City University (OCU) Stars met today in Goodwell, OK in a Sooner Athletic Conference matchup. The Stars of Oklahoma City came out victorious by a score of 78-75. 

The first half of the game saw OPSU take a narrow lead with a score of 41-39 against the OCU Stars. The Aggies dominated the boards, securing four offensive rebounds while the Stars had none. Turning those offensive boards into 7 crucial points showcased the Aggies' ability to capitalize on second-chance opportunities.

OPSU's defensive prowess was evident with 3 steals leading to 4 fast-break points, keeping the Aggies in control. However, the Stars came back strong after halftime, going on a scoring run to take a 51-46 lead.

The turning point came when Boston Douglas sunk two free throws, breaking the scoring drought and bringing the Aggies within reach at 51-48. OPSU continued their run, tying the game at 61-61 after an Abdulh Diaby put-back at the 9-minute mark. The game remained closely contested, ultimately concluding with a hard-fought 78-75 victory for the Oklahoma City University Stars.

Head Coach Charles Belt reflected on the team's performance, stating, "You lose big, then you lose small, then you win small, then you win big… That's the process. No steps skipped, no moral victories. We've had 5 'beat downs' and the rest all close losses. We aren't ready to win those games yet. I feel bad for Joe Greaves. He's working hard, and sadly he won't be able to enjoy the fruit of his labor because he will graduate and be gone when we finally move to the win small/win big stage of the process."

Coach Belt emphasized the importance of perseverance and commitment, adding, "I refuse to have him feel like we've given up on his senior year. It's hard being the lone senior on a team that's young and counting on freshmen and sophomores to make game-winning plays in huge moments. Back to work Monday!"

Tonight's standout performer for the Aggies was Joe Greaves, leading the team with 19 points, going 5/9 from three, along with 5 rebounds and 1 steal. Five Aggies players reached double figures in scoring, with Fred Robinson IV contributing 18 points and 5 assists, Amaree Brown adding 16 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 steals, Abdulh Diaby with 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 blocks, and Boston Douglas scoring 10 points with 5 rebounds.

The Aggies are set to face USAO at home next week on Thursday, February 8th, at 8 PM.