LA GRANDE, Ore. - The No. 5-ranked College of Idaho held off a valiant effort from the Eastern Oregon Mountaineers to secure a 64-57 victory on Friday night. Despite a tighter second-half performance from EOU, the Yotes' zone defense and rebounding edge proved too much to overcome in the Cascade Collegiate Conference battle. The Mountaineers played a much closer game than their first matchup earlier this month, fighting back from a fifteen-point deficit to challenge the defending national champions.

Statistically, both teams pulled down 24 defensive rebounds, with COI taking a slight edge on the offensive glass. Despite struggling from beyond the arc, connecting on just 3-of-23 attempts, the Yotes outscored the Mountaineers 32-22 in the paint. College of Idaho converted 19-of-23 free throws compared to 15-of-20 for Eastern Oregon, ultimately providing the crucial difference in a close contest.

For the Mountaineers, Jaden Hansen led the charge with 20 points and 9 rebounds, while Brennan Newsom chipped in a solid 6 points and 4 rebounds. Adam Orr provided a spark for the Mounties, contributing two early three-pointers and finishing with 9 points. EOU had a difficult time figuring out the Yotes' zone defense, coughing up 16 total turnovers.

On the COI side, Johnny Radford was instrumental in the victory, finishing with a team-high 14 points and going 10-11 from the free throw line. Tyler Robinett added 11 points and 5 rebounds, while Samaje Morgan contributed 11 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals. The Yotes' balanced attack, offensive rebounding, and efficient free throw shooting proved decisive in securing the win.

Eastern Oregon men's basketball will be back in action on Friday, January 5th, facing off against the Warriors of Lewis-Clark State at 2:00 p.m. in Quinn Coliseum.