SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — For the second time in three years, Indiana Wesleyan ended St. Francis’ hopes of an NAIA Division II championship in the title game.
The Wildcats (31-7) built an 18-point lead early in the second half, only to see the Cougars (29-9), featuring two seniors from Columbus, come storming back to cut the lead to one on several occasions. But IWU pulled away at the end for an 84-71 win, its fourth victory against SFU this season.
Columbus East graduate Bryce Lienhoop scored 17 points on 7-of-14 shooting from the field and 3-of-5 shooting from the free-throw line. He led the Cougars with nine rebounds and added two assists.
Columbus North graduate Evan Henry finished with eight points on 3-of-9 shooting from the field, including 2-of-6 from 3-point range. He added a rebound and two assists.
