Second-Half Surge Lifts Tigers Past Trojans

GOODLAND, Kan. — Colby's men's basketball team led for much of the afternoon Saturday (Jan. 10), but could not hold off a strong second-half push, falling 80–73 to Fort Hays Tech Northwest at the Max L. Jones Fieldhouse.

Colby opened the game with sharp offensive execution, shooting efficiently from the perimeter and building a 33–27 lead at halftime. The Trojans connected on 45 percent of their three-point attempts for the game and controlled the pace early to keep Fort Hays Tech Northwest off their game.

Aliou Diallo provided a major spark off the bench for Colby, turning in one of his most efficient performances of the season. Diallo led all Trojans with 19 points, scoring in a variety of ways while shooting an impressive 7-of-9 from the field. He consistently attacked the basket and finished through contact to help Colby maintain momentum during key stretches of the game. Diallo also added five rebounds and a steal, giving the Trojans valuable energy on both ends of the floor in extended minutes.

Gabe Njenga delivered a strong all-around effort in the frontcourt, finishing with 13 points and five rebounds while shooting 5-of-8 from the field. Njenga was effective around the rim and stretched the defense with his ability to score both inside and from the perimeter. D.J. Cason added 11 points in a solid performance. Kellan Simoneau contributed eight points and four rebounds, providing consistent effort on both ends of the floor. Rhett Kats also made his presence felt, connecting on both of his three-point attempts to finish with six points. 

Colby extended its lead to as many as 13 points early in the second half, but Fort Hays Tech Northwest had a response. The Tigers capitalized on turnovers, scoring 30 points off Colby miscues, which proved to be the turning point of the game. Despite shooting just 21.4 percent from beyond the arc, Fort Hays Tech Northwest stayed within reach by attacking inside and getting to the free-throw line, finishing 24-of-30 at the stripe. The Trojans continued to battle late, but Fort Hays Tech Northwest closed the game by converting key free throws and limiting second-chance opportunities.

With the loss, Colby move to 4–12 (2–8 KJCCC). The Trojans will look to regroup as conference action continues Wednesday (Jan. 14) in Garden City.