Abram Choate, SID

BROWNWOOD, TX - HPU had as much as a 11-point lead in the second half but a late rally by University of the Ozarks and HPU was unable to hang on losing 78-74.

It was close in the first half but HPU was able to go into the lockeroom with a 5 point lead 35-30. HPU would shoot 44.4%  and 30 rebounds sparked by great play from Jr. F Sean Wheeler(San Angelo-Lake View HS) with 15 points and 11 rebounds in the first half.  University of the Ozarks would shoot 34.3% from the field and 16 rebounds.

HPU had as much as a 11-point lead in the second half but poor free-throw shooting by HPU was the difference. HPU shot 44.9% from the field for the game and out rebounded the Ozarks 49-33. University of the Ozarks  shot 40.3% for the game.

Leading individual stats for HPU- Sean Wheeler with 19 points and 14 rebounds. Three other Jackets  scored in the double digits, Jr G Kendrick Johnson(Willowridge HS), So. G Jamarcus Johnson(Beaver County CC), and Sr. C Cliff McGuire(Haskel HS) with 18, 16, and 14 respectively.

Leading individual stats for University of the Ozarks - Habeeb Kareem with 19 points and 13 rebounds, and Josh Joyner with 16 points and 6 rebounds.

HPU will be back in action on the road verses LeTourneau on Thursday, December 8, 2005.