The Ouachita Tigers (13-10, 6-7 GAC) posted a solid performance at Rhodes Field House in Searcy on Thursday night, stealing a road victory in one of the most difficult environments to do so. The Tigers held a lead on Harding (13-9, 8-4 GAC) almost the entire game, stretching it to as much as 16 at one point. The Tigers won the game by a final score of 69-60, keeping Harding behind them by forcing tough shots, as Harding only converted 40 percent of their field goal attempts in the game while the Tigers converted 44.2 percent of theirs.
Junior Michael Morris posted huge numbers for the Tigers, recording 21 points to go along with his eight rebounds, three blocks, two steals and four assists in an 8 of 14 performance from the floor. Junior Nigel Ramsey added 13 points of his own for the Tigers, recording a double-double in the game with a game-high 11 assists. Junior Austin Mitchell recorded 10 points for Ouachita while coming down with four rebounds in the game.
Harding was led by Zach Roddenberry, who scored 13 points and recorded 11 rebounds during his time on the floor. Bradley Spencer added 12 for the Bisons, while Kirk Porter added 9. Spencer also added a team-high four assists for Harding while Roddenberry and Demoine Brown both recorded two steals.
Ouachita’s performance from the free throw line was particularly impressive, as they sunk 18 of their 23 attempts for 78.3 percent. Ouachita forced 17 turnovers while turning it over 15 times themselves. The difference lies in the first half, as the Tigers held a 10 point lead at halftime before holding on for a nine point victory.
Ouachita returns to action on Monday, when they travel to Henderson State for the second installment of the Battle of the Ravine rivalry game.
Pictures by Gary Gerber
