Feb. 11, 2017 - The Concordia University Chicago Cougars welcomed another tough opponent to Geiseman Gymnasium this afternoon. The Wisconsin Lutheran College Warriors came into today's contest with an opportunity to clinch an NACC playoff berth with a win over CUC. The Cougars gave it their all, especially late, but WLC would clinch the playoff spot defeating CUC 88-78.
 
Much like the women's contest prior, the first half got off to a quick start with hot shooting and good ball movement by both teams. Unfortunately for CUC, WLC was able to find a few more open baskets over the beginning of the game. Israel Dosie brought CUC back within four with a three just over five minutes in, and a Mitch Pelissier layup cut the deficit to just two. The Warriors were able to build their lead to double digits midway through the half by forcing Cougar turnovers. The 9-0 run would finally be stopped by a Pelissier three. Dosie cut the WLC advantage back to single digits momentarily with 4:53 remaining in the half, but the Warriors were able to get inside to extend the lead back out to 45-33 at the halftime break.
 
The Cougars continued to show their resilience in the second half. Jumpers by Jarek Hotwagner and Kris Claybon cut the Warriors' lead back to 61-55 midway through the half. WLC continued to exploit the Cougars defensively, not allowing CUC to get a long enough run to claw back to even. Trailing by 16 and just over four minutes remaining, head coach Randy Rogers opted to put a new lineup on the floor. Evan Snyder canned a three to begin an 8-2 run that pulled CUC within four with just under a minute remaining. The Cougars were able to create opportunities on the run with good ball movement and strong team defense. Unfortunately, WLC was able to make free-throws under pressure to keep the Cougars from completing the comeback.
 
Four Cougars finished the game in double figures led by Pelissier with 16 on 7-15 shooting. Dosie and Kyle Hoffman chipped in 14 and 13 respectively. The big telling factor in the game was the Warriors' ability to get to the free throw line 38 times in the game, where they converted 26 times to CUC's 14.
 
The Cougars (5-18, 4-14 NACC) will renew the Division Street rivalry when they head down Division Street to take on Dominican on Tuesday night. Opening tip is set for 7 p.m.