ASHLAND, Ore.  – After a close fight for most of the first half, the Southern Oregon University men's basketball team put the Beacons in the rearview mirror after intermission, claiming a 96-65 victory in Cascade Collegiate Conference action.
 
The Beacons had a hard time getting anything to go their way over the final 20 minutes, allowing 55 second-half points while ending the night shooting just 2-for-23 from three-point range. Bushnell held a 40-35 rebounding advantage and pulled in 13 offensive boards for a 16-4 margin in second-chance scoring, but it wasn't enough.
 
"I was disappointed in our effort and energy tonight," said Head Coach Eddie Alexander. "We didn't come ready to play tonight. Travel is never an excuse, but for whatever reason we are struggling more than normal on the road. We have to figure this out and have to find a way to bring better energy tomorrow."
 
The Beacons (10-13, 6-11) were led by Kaleb Burnett as the Raiders had no answer for the redshirt freshman's speed around the rim, scoring 25 points and five rebounds. Ashton Harvey added eleven.
 
Southern Oregon (15-7, 10-6) spread the ball around with five different players scoring at least 11 points. Elijah Jackson led SOU with 17 points and four assists.
 
With the loss, Bushnell falls into a tie for eighth-place with Warner Pacific University.
 
Alexander added, "I love my guys and I am so proud of who they are, so it really hurts to not see them succeed the way we know they are capable of. Praying a good night rest and safe travels through the snow tomorrow allows us the focus we need at OIT."
 
The Beacons continue their four-game road stand on Saturday in Klamath Falls against No. 24 Oregon Tech with tip-off scheduled for 5:00 pm.