COLUMBUS, Ohio - Capital University men's basketball hosted the John Carroll University Blue Streaks, who were receiving votes in the D3hoops.com national polls, in an OAC match-up today. The Comets started off the game strong but were unable to keep up with the Blue Streaks, ultimately leading to an 82-66 loss.

The loss moves Capital to 4-9 on the year (1-5 in OAC conference play). Winning takes John Carroll to 9-4 on the year (4-2 in OAC conference play).

Both teams took a while to get going in the first half, feeling each other out and trying to find weaknesses in the opposing game plans. Eventually, the Blue Streaks were able to establish a lead that they would maintain until Brody Gowen got ahead on a fast break and threw it down over a defender drawing a foul and sinking the and-1 free throw to tie the game 24-24. Capital was able to stay in-step with the fast-paced offense of John Carrol for the rest of the half. Despite Capital's energetic effort on both ends of the ball, they went into halftime down 38-33.

The start of the second half had similar trends to the first with both teams trading blows. This trend didn't continue for long though, and JCU was able to execute well on both ends of the ball to pull away. The Comets continued to fight, utilizing their skilled guards and physical post players to put the defense in conflict. It wasn't enough though, and the Blue Streaks were able to maintain their lead for the remainder of the game, with a final score of 82-68. 

THE NUMBERS
McKane Finkenbine was the co-leader in scoring for the Comets with 15. He also contributed to Capital's defensive effort with two steals.

Justin Nixon shared the lead role with Finkenbine, also scoring 15 points. Nixon also showcased his versatility with three assists.

Alex Eyink led the team in rebounds with four, while also dishing out three assists.

Matt O'Donnell brought the energy on defense, leading the team in steals with three and blocks with two.

UP NEXT
Capital University men's basketball wil travel to the Wilmington Quakers on Wednesday, January 15 with the contest set to tipoff at 7:00 pm.