Lebanon, Ill. – The Bearcats resumed play Thursday after Christmas break, defeating GLVC opponent McKendree in the battle of the Bearcats. The win marks SBU's first conference win as part of the GLVC, bringing them to an 8-2 (1-1 GLVC) record.
 
Quinn Nelson got the Bearcats going with a three pointer on their second possession. Joe Miller and Damian Prgomet also scored to build an early 8-2 lead. The home team quickly fought back, but three's from Joe Miller and Mitch Ganote kept SBU ahead. The teams kept battling to close out the first half, 33-32 SBU.
 
Brady Smith got things going early in the second with a jumper in the paint. A few minutes later, McKendree took a four point lead. Not phased by the lead change, Brady Smith and Damian Prgomet went on a scoring spree resulting in a 44-39 SBU lead. Around the midway point through the second half, Quinn Nelson hit a huge three to boost SBU's lead to 8. With 3:24 to go, McKendree cut the lead to just 3, but SBU held on for a 76-68 victory.
 
Damian Prgomet got his second double-double of the season, scoring 21 points with 10 rebounds. Brady Smith led both teams with 21 points and also had 8 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 blocks. Joe Miller and Quinn Nelson were the other Bearcats in double-digit points, Miller with 12 and 8 rebounds, Nelson with 10.
 
SBU continues their road trip Saturday against the University of Southern Indiana. The Screaming Eagles are currently ranked #12 in the coach's poll and defeated Drury Thursday evening.