TURNOVERS AND MISSED FREE THROWS DOOM MEN’S BASKETBALL VS. BETHEL

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Avila men's basketball was unable to get 2025 off to a winning start, losing to Bethel at Mabee Fieldhouse on Friday night, 78-65.

The game was moved up from its originally scheduled Saturday afternoon tip in preparation of winter storms impacting Kansas City.

Avila shot well from the floor in the first half, but 4-of-10 shooting from the line and 10 turnovers in the first half got the Eagles off to a rough start.

Bethel shot 47 percent from the field in the first half and 75 percent from the free throw line to hold an 11-point halftime lead.

Avila came out in the second half looking to cut the deficit down. A back-and-forth final 20 minutes saw Bethel lead by as many as 22 before Avila fought back to bring the deficit to single-digits in the final five minutes before the ultimate 78-65 defeat.

The Eagles suffered from missed opportunities in the game, shooting under 60 percent from the free throw line, committing 16 turnovers and getting outrebounded 47-33 in the matchup.

On the positive side, Joe Kearney (15), George Williams (12) and Brennan Jeffries (10) were Avila's starters in double figures. Off the bench, Jordan Majeed put up 11 points. Kearney also added five steals to the team's effort.

Avila will have a chance to get another KCAC win when they travel to Ottawa on Wednesday for an 8 PM tip. The Eagles will return to Mabee Fieldhouse on Jan. 11 versus Kansas Wesleyan.