TAHLEQUAH --
Bryson Smith scored a season-high 21 points in a 78-75 win for Northeastern State over Christian Brothers on Saturday at the NSU Event Center in a matchup that saw the RiverHawks weather a second-half storm from the visiting side.
The first quarter of action was closely contested, with NSU (3-3) ahead 16-14 with 10:54 left in the half. The RiverHawks exploded to a 14-1 run to push the advantage after to 15 (30-15) with 5:39 remaining, though the team would make just two more field goals in the rest of the period and took a 34-24 lead to the break.
The Bucs (2-1) tested the RiverHawks behind 61.3% (19-of-31) shooting in the second half, finally forcing the contest to a 56-56 tie with 8:10 left. Free throws would prove to be key in preserving the win for the hosts, who knocked down nine shots from the charity stripe the rest of the way alongside five made field goals.
Smith's performance was a result of a nine-of-13 shooting day, going two-of-three from outside. He added four assists in the win, while
Trey Phipps converted on three triples and five total attempts with five makes at the line, as well, in an 18-point outing.
Taven Washington finished in double figures with 14 points, while
Ethan Blackmon led the RiverHawks in rebounding (seven) and provided 12 points.
Jaxon Jones logged seven assists in the victory.
The RiverHawks play their annual contest at Jack Dobbins Field House against Ecclesia on Monday, Nov. 25 with a 7 p.m. tipoff.
