Men's Basketball Fall to Pratt

Fort Hays Tech Northwest lost a close game to Pratt Community College on Wednesday, 83-90.

The Tigers started strong, quickly building an early lead as both teams exchanged scoring runs throughout the first half. Pratt nearly took the lead at the 14-minute mark, trailing 13-12, but Tech responded with an 8-2 run to push the lead back up. Pratt then answered with a run of their own, narrowing the gap to just one point at 23-22. Pratt would tie the game 26-26 at the eight-and-a-half-minute mark before Tech went on a run again, extending their lead back out to 34-28 with five minutes left in the half. After some continued back and forth, Pratt would narrow the lead back down to one point as they entered halftime 42-41.

After some initial back and forth, the Tigers would work on extending their lead back out to nine points, 57-48, with 12:44 left to play. Pratt quickly responded, cutting the lead back to six points and calling a timeout with 12 minutes remaining. The Beavers would continue to narrow the lead before tying the game again 66-66 at the seven-minute mark. Pratt would soon take the lead with six minutes to go as the momentum shifted in their favor. The Tigers would fight hard, staying within striking distance as they continued to drive to the rim. However, Pratt's ability to draw fouls and convert free throws allowed them to keep the Tigers at bay, ultimately securing the win.

Four Tigers scored in double figures, with Chase Harris and John Troolin leading the way off the bench. Francisco Monreal also had a standout performance, recording his first double-double of the season with 10 points and 10 rebounds.

The Tigers will return to action on Saturday against the Seward County Saints. The Saints are 2-9 on the season and 1-5 in conference play.