East Michigan News

The Eastern Michigan University men's basketball team narrowly defeated Houston Christian University, 74-73, on Monday at Sharp Gymnasium during the Houston Christian MTE. Eastern Michigan led by 16 points with eight minutes left in the game before Houston Christian rallied to take a two-point lead. However, Christian Henry secured the win for Eastern with a decisive basket in the final 45 seconds.

Four players from Eastern reached double figures for the second time this season. Da'Sean Nelson scored 19 points, Jalen Terry added 18, Jalin Billingsley contributed 13, and Henry finished with 12 points.

In the first half, EMU built a lead of up to 12 points thanks to an 18-5 run. The Eagles maintained a nine-point advantage at halftime after a late lay-up by Henry and another by Terry just before the buzzer.

Despite Eastern's substantial lead midway through the second half, Houston Christian responded with a significant 22-4 run to briefly take control of the game. Yet, Henry's timely lay-up put Eastern back in front before Terry's free throws helped secure their victory. A last-second shot attempt by Houston Christian missed its mark.

Eastern improved its overall record to 4-2 while Houston Christian fell to 2-4. Eastern was successful on nearly 57% of their field goals compared to Houston Christian's approximately 51%. Nelson matched his career-high in made field goals and achieved his highest scoring game of the season so far.

Additional contributions included Arne Osojnik recording career-highs in both steals and assists and Godslove Nwabude adding two blocks for the second time this season. Despite recording only seven offensive rebounds—a season low—Eastern still managed to outrebound their opponent.

This game marked EMU's first meeting against Houston Christian and extended their streak of hitting at least one three-pointer in consecutive games since January 2004.

Eastern Michigan will play Northern Arizona next at Sharp Gymnasium on Tuesday night, while Houston Christian’s women's basketball team faces Tarleton State earlier that evening.

For more updates on Eastern Michigan basketball, visit EMUEagles.com or follow them on Twitter (@EMU_MBB) and Instagram (@EMUMBB).