HAYS, KS – SWOSU Men's Basketball saw their second half comeback attempt against Emporia State fall just short on Saturday night in their season opener. The Bulldogs trailed by 19 points right out of halftime but continually chipped away at their deficit throughout the second half until the clock read all zeros.

The Bulldogs had the game within one point with 2:06 left in the game after a DeAngelo Adkins three pointer, but ESU was able to answer each Bulldog score in the final minutes to not allow any lead change. SWOSU did not lead at any point during the contest.

It was a tale of two halves for both teams. The Bulldogs finished the first half shooting just 34% from the field, while ESU ended at 46%. After halftime, SWOSU got the hot hand and shot 56% overall while holding the Hornets to just 28% as a team.

Chris Braggs, Jr. led the way on offense, finishing with 21 points on an efficient 7-of-11 shooting and 5-for-5 on free throws. Tanner Meraz gave the Bulldogs a boost off the bench, finishing with 11 points. Kamden Gipson led the team in rebounding (8) and assists (6) while chipping in nine points himself.

SWOSU won the rebounding battle 38-33 but lost the turnover battle 15-13.

The Bulldogs return to action Sunday against Ft. Hays State to conclude the GAC/MIAA Challenge. Tipoff for that game is set for 3pm in Kansas.