The Baker University men’s basketball team fell to 14-13 on the season Saturday as it suffered a 64-50 loss to the Central Methodist University Eagles. The loss was the Wildcats’ fifth straight and dropped them to 7-10 in the Heart of America Athletic Conference.
After going back-and-forth in the first 12 minutes of the game, Central Methodist took control on an 11-3 run to take a 24-16 lead. Back to back baskets by senior Corey Anderson brought the game back to within four points, but the first half ended with the Eagles expanding their lead to 32-22.
CMU’s Alex Barner scored all of his 15 points in the first half, leading the way for the Eagles.
The second half did not bode well for the Wildcats, as Central Methodist increased the gap to as much as 18 points with 8:45 left in the game, and BU was never able to come closer than 11 points.
Ben Steinlage led the Wildcats with 17 points on 5-11 shooting from the field, and 7-10 from the free-throw line. Steinlage also led the team with nine rebounds and three steals.
Central Methodist edged Baker in field goal percentage, 44 percent to 41 percent, but attempted 20 more field goals. The Eagles were able to outrebound the Wildcats 36 to 26.<br/>
Baker shot 1-6 from 3-point range as a team, with their only make coming from Anderson with 7:20 left in the game. The one 3-point field goal was the lowest total in any game this season. The Wildcats also tied their season low in shot attempts with 39.
The Wildcats will return home for their regular season finale Monday against Benedictine College. Baker will recognize Anderson, Steinlage, Jordan Honore, Todd Eils, Baba Diallo, Samer Jassar and Kevin Lysaught as they will play their last regular season game in Collins Center. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.