KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Bethel College men's basketball team dropped an 81–75 decision at Avila on Saturday afternoon, moving to 17–7 overall and 12–6 in KCAC play. Despite the setback, Bethel remains alone in fourth place in the conference standings.

Bethel played an efficient first half, shooting over 50 percent from the floor and taking a 38–35 lead into the break. The Threshers continued to score in the second half but struggled to maintain momentum as turnovers and extra possessions swung the game in Avila's favor. Avila capitalized late, outscoring Bethel over the final stretch to pull away.

Carmelo Yakubu led the Threshers with 20 points and seven rebounds, while Trenton Patterson added 13 points and Dominick Harris chipped in 12. Off the bench, Cade Kittrell provided a spark with 11 points on efficient shooting.

Bethel finished the game shooting 50 percent from the field and 38 percent from three, but second-half turnovers proved costly as Avila turned those mistakes into points at the other end.

Up Next

Bethel continues conference play on the road Wednesday with a trip to Kansas Wesleyan. Tipoff is scheduled for 8:00 PM.