HESSTON, Kan. — Despite a massive second-half surge and three players scoring 19 points or more, the Hesston College men's basketball team came up just short in a 115-107 shootout against the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (USAO) on Saturday afternoon in Yost Gym.

After trailing 58-42 at halftime, the Larks erupted for 65 second-half points and repeatedly cut into USAO's lead behind efficient scoring and high-pressure defense. Brennon Dodge sparked the rally with 20 of his game-high 27 points after the break, finishing 11-for-17 from the field with one three-pointer and four assists. Trent Thompson was a force on both ends, posting 25 points, seven rebounds, eight steals and six assists before fouling out late. Brycten Harris added 19 points on 7-of-10 shooting, including four threes, as Hesston relied heavily on its bench production—61 points overall.

USAO built its early advantage behind a dominant start from Mohand Ammad, who poured in 14 first-half points and finished with 40 on 14-of-19 shooting. The Drovers shot 61.9 percent from the floor and 58.8 percent from three for the game, using timely perimeter scoring to maintain separation. Bryce Cowns added 19 points and Jamouri McCalister contributed 21 points and seven assists for USAO.

The Larks found their rhythm midway through the second half as Thompson created turnovers and Dodge attacked in transition, eventually narrowing the deficit to single digits in the final minutes. However, USAO converted key free throws down the stretch to hold off Hesston's comeback bid.

Hesston shot 49.3 percent from the field, knocked down 12 threes and forced 24 turnovers, turning them into 32 points. Along with Dodge, Thompson and Harris, the Larks saw contributions from Antonio Odum (10 points, six assists), Brooks Thrift (seven rebounds) and Rob Gambill (five points, three rebounds).