BARTLESVILLE, Okla.—For the fourth time in the last five seasons, the Bethel College men's basketball team will play for a KCAC Tournament Championship after a thrilling 67-64 victory over top-seeded Oklahoma Wesleyan in Saturday's semifinal matchup. The Threshers will now face Saint Mary on Monday night at 7 PM in Leavenworth with the conference title on the line.

How It Happened

Bethel came out with confidence, keeping pace with the Eagles early before gaining momentum behind a huge first half from Ekene Duru, who provided an unexpected offensive spark. Duru tallied seven first-half points, including a clutch three-pointer to help Bethel take a 32-24 lead into halftime.

The Threshers' defense set the tone, holding OKWU to just 30% shooting in the first half and forcing tough contested shots. Dominick Harris was a steady presence throughout the game, making key plays on both ends to help Bethel maintain control.

In the second half, the Eagles made their push, cutting the lead to single digits and applying full-court pressure to disrupt Bethel's offense. However, unlike their first meeting with OKWU—where turnovers plagued the Threshers—Bethel committed just two turnovers against the press, a massive improvement that allowed them to maintain their advantage.

As Oklahoma Wesleyan continued to rally, Harper Jonas delivered one of the biggest shots of the game, hitting a tough baseline jumper to extend Bethel's lead to 60-53 with under four minutes to play. OKWU had a chance to tie, but Talton Jr.'s shot rimmed out 

Down the stretch, Carmelo Yakubu stepped up at the free-throw line, knocking down clutch free throws in the final seconds to seal the upset victory. Yakubu finished with 11 points, four rebounds, and four assists, showing poise in the game's biggest moments.

Inside the Numbers

• Bethel shot 40.7% from the field and 37.5% from three-point range.
• The Threshers held OKWU to just 28.6% from beyond the arc.
• Yakubu led Bethel with 11 points, four assists, and clutch free throws late.
• Jonas finished with 12 points, including the pivotal baseline jumper late in the second half.
• Duru's seven first-half points were crucial in establishing Bethel's lead.
• Bethel committed just two turnovers against OKWU's full-court press, a major improvement from their first meeting.

Up Next

Bethel will play for the KCAC Tournament Championship on Monday night at 7 PM when they travel to Leavenworth to face Saint Mary.