Men's Basketball Competes Deep Into Game vs. No. 19 Dodge City

COLBY, Kan. – The Colby Trojans men's basketball team delivered one of its most complete efforts of the season Wednesday (Feb. 4), going toe-to-toe with nationally ranked No. 19 Dodge City Community College before the Conquistadors pulled away late for an 80–71 win at the Colby Event Center.

Colby refused to back down from the opening tip, matching Dodge City's physicality throughout the first half. The Trojans erased early deficits and closed the opening 20 minutes on even terms, heading into the locker room tied 30–30.

Sophomore guard D.J. Cason set the tone offensively, knocking down four three-pointers and finishing with a team-high 20 points. Dodge City leaned on Derrick Rivers and Rickey Loftin II, but Colby's defensive energy and rebounding kept the Conquistadors in check early.

Dodge City found separation in the second half, opening the period with an efficient offensive stretch and shooting 50 percent over the final 20 minutes. Rivers finished with 20 points, while Loftin II added 19 points and eight rebounds as the Conqs capitalized at the free-throw line and from beyond the arc.

Despite the push from Dodge City, Colby continued to compete on both ends. The Trojans won the rebounding battle 38–28, including 14 offensive rebounds, creating extra possessions that kept the game within reach. Aliou Diallo contributed across the stat sheet with 16 points, five assists, two steals, and two blocks, while Giannis Asimakopoulos posted nine points and eight rebounds inside.

Colby's bench played a key role in the effort, outscoring Dodge City's reserves 21–15. Owen Reece provided an instant spark, scoring 10 points on a perfect 4-for-4 shooting, while Gabe Njenga added energy on the glass with five rebounds.

The Trojans stayed within striking distance late but struggled to convert consistently, finishing the night at 33.3 percent shooting. Dodge City sealed the game at the line in the final minutes, going 16-of-21 from the stripe.

While the result didn't swing in Colby's favor, the performance marked a step forward against one of the KJCCC's top teams. The Trojans are now set to take on Cloud County this Saturday (Feb. 7) in Concordia, KS.