BETHANY, Okla. — No. 7 Southern Nazarene capped its non-conference slate with a key victory on Saturday afternoon, edging Rogers State 67–65 in the finale of the SNU Conference Challenge inside the Sawyer Center.

The Crimson Storm (6-0, 0-0 GAC) found themselves in a tight battle from start to finish against a tough Hillcat squad (4-2, 0-0 MIAA). The game featured 14 ties and a remarkable 25 lead changes, but SNU's late poise once again proved to be the separator as the Storm remained unbeaten heading into conference play.

Colby Henderson delivered one of his most complete performances of the season, pouring in 14 points on 6-of-8 shooting while adding four rebounds, three assists, and three steals. His steady two-way presence down the stretch played a key part in SNU's late success.

Bam Johnson followed closely with 13 points and three assists. Malik Edwards gave the Storm a major lift as well, tallying 12 points. 

Tracy Godfrey Jr. added nine points and six rebounds, helping SNU control the paint with a 46–40 scoring advantage inside. Baron Bracey filled the stat sheet once again, finishing with 10 points, 13 rebounds, and hit the knock down jumper to give SNU the lead with just under three seconds to play.

SNU shot 55.2% in the second half to overcome an early offensive lull, finishing at 45.8% overall. Defensively, the Storm's pressure again made the difference, generating 11 steals and turning 10 RSU turnovers into 17 points.

With the win, Southern Nazarene completes its non-conference schedule a perfect 6–0 marking the program's best start since 2018. 

Next Up

The Crimson Storm will hit the road to take on the Muleriders of Southern Arkansas in their conference opener on Thursday, December 4 at 7:30 pm in Magnolia.