NORTH NEWTON, Kan.—The Bethel College men's basketball team faced a tough Oklahoma Wesleyan University squad on Saturday evening, falling 86-70 in Thresher Gym. 

Jonas led Bethel with 15 points, hitting three three-pointers, while Yakubu contributed 8 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists. Oklahoma Wesleyan's Jaden Wilson paced the Eagles with 15 points, and Derrick Talton Jr. orchestrated the offense with 8 assists.

How It Happened

The game started with a high tempo as Oklahoma Wesleyan opened a 9-3 lead early. The Threshers responded with three-point shooting from Jonas and Eli Wiseman, keeping the game within reach. However, turnovers and second-chance points allowed the Eagles to extend their lead to 50-41 at halftime.

In the second half, Oklahoma Wesleyan's efficient shooting (54.7% for the game) proved too much for Bethel. The Eagles capitalized on defensive stops and extended their lead to 16 points in the final minutes. Despite late baskets from Yakubu and Jonas, the Threshers couldn't close the gap.

Inside the Numbers

• Bethel shot 44.8% from the field but struggled from beyond the arc, hitting 35.5% (11-for-31).
• The Eagles controlled the boards, outrebounding Bethel 34-23, including 10 offensive rebounds that led to 16 second-chance points.
• Oklahoma Wesleyan committed 13 turnovers but forced Bethel into 18, leading to 21 points off turnovers.
• Dominick Harris added 9 points off the bench for Bethel, including two three-pointers.

Up Next

Bethel wraps up its pre-Christmas schedule with a trip to Fort Hays State University on Monday, December 16th. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM.