by HESSTON, Kan. — Haskell Indian Nations University closed the game with a decisive late surge to pull away from Hesston College for a 76–67 victory, turning a tightly contested matchup into a strong finish on both ends of the floor.
First Half
The opening 20 minutes were a grind, with neither team able to create separation. Hesston used second-chance opportunities early to build a slim edge, but Haskell responded with steady defense and timely baskets. Jesse White scored inside and on pull-ups to keep the hosts within striking distance, while Ryan Hawkins and Preston Olney knocked down key shots to counter Hesston’s perimeter scoring.
Despite stretches of empty possessions for both teams, Haskell stayed composed at the free-throw line and on the glass. Nehemiah Boykins provided energy off the bench with finishes in traffic and trips to the line. Still, Hesston carried a narrow 32–31 advantage into halftime after a late bucket.
Second Half
Haskell wasted little time flipping the momentum. Boykins opened the half with a strong finish, and White followed with a three-pointer as the Indians briefly took the lead. Hesston answered with perimeter shooting to regain the edge, but the game remained back-and-forth through the first 10 minutes.
The turning point came midway through the half. Haskell strung together stops, forced turnovers, and capitalized in transition. White’s shooting and playmaking sparked an extended run, while Olney buried another three to stretch the margin. Defensive pressure led to steals and quick scores, pushing Haskell in front 59–49 with under nine minutes to play.
Hesston trimmed the deficit behind Dante Smith’s shooting and second-chance points, but Haskell consistently answered. Chaske Jacobs drilled a clutch three, and the Indians controlled the boards down the stretch. In the final minute, Haskell iced the game at the line, converting free throws to seal the win.
By the Numbers
- Jesse White led the charge with 23 points,16 rebounds, 5 assists, and multiple steals.
- Nehemiah Boykins delivered key 23 points 8rebounds, and late key free throws.
- Preston Olney provided 14 points to round out the double digit scorers.
