SALINA, Kan. - The Bethel College men's basketball team emerged victorious over Kansas Wesleyan University, 74-71, on Wednesday night at Mabee Arena. The Threshers (9-6, 5-4 KCAC) relied on clutch play from Carmelo Yakubu and strong defensive efforts down the stretch to seal the win.

Yakubu delivered a standout performance with a game-high 24 points, shooting 10-of-19 from the field and grabbing six rebounds. Harper Jonas contributed 14 points and seven boards, while Cade Kittrell secured a double-double with 12 rebounds and seven points, anchoring the Threshers' presence in the paint.

How It Happened

Bethel and Kansas Wesleyan battled evenly in the first half, with the Coyotes edging out a 34-32 lead at the break. The Threshers struggled to score coming out the 2nd half, and found themselves down by 18 with less than 8 minutes to go. The Threshers turned the Coyotes over and went on a huge run to tie it at 71.

With the game on the line in the final minute, Yakubu hit a critical jumper to put Bethel ahead 73-71. After a defensive stop, Yakubu secured the rebound and was fouled. He iced the game by hitting one of two free throws with 11 seconds left, as the Threshers' defense held Kansas Wesleyan scoreless on their final possession.

Inside the Numbers

• Bethel shot 39.7% from the field, including 35% from beyond the arc.
• The Threshers controlled the boards with a 41-38 rebounding advantage.
• Bethel converted 13-of-20 free throws (65%), while Kansas Wesleyan shot 7-of-12 (58.3%) from the line.
• Carmelo Yakubu lead the Threshers with 24 points with 18 in the second half. 

Up Next

Bethel returns home to host the University of Saint Mary on Saturday, January 11th, at 5:00 PM in Thresher Gym.