Box Score MAGNOLIA, Ark.- The Muleriders of Southern Arkansas (4-3, 1-2 GAC) proved to be a tough customer for the Ouachita Tigers (4-3, 1-2 GAC) on Thursday night, as Head Coach Dennis Nutt and his Tigers fell by a final score of 66-54.
 
The Tigers fell behind early in the game, as they faced a 29-22 deficit at the conclusion of the first half.
 
Although they saw a number  of runs, even getting as close as three points at times, the Muleriders finally put the Tigers away with a 37 point second half performance, stretching the final margin to 12 points.
 
Ouachita had three players in double-digits, with Austin Mitchell leading the team with 13 points. Julian LaDay and Michael Morris both added 10 for the Tigers, with Colt Fason registering eight points in the game. Morris led the team in rebounding, reining in seven during the course of the contest, while LaDay and Micah Delph both recorded three assists.
 
Southern Arkansas' Nigel Jones had a night to remember, with 21 points and 12 rebounds en route to the Mulerider victory. Rodney Hill added 10 points for SAU and Tevin Worthy added eight points and nine rebounds.
 
The Tigers forced 23 turnovers in the game, limiting themselves to just 15, but the Muleriders 48-34 advantage on the boards practically negated the turnover margin. Ouachita struggled from the floor, only making 31 percent of their shots, while the Muleriders, who didn't exactly shoot the lights out, converted on 37 percent of their attempts.
 
With the Muleriders' rebounding advantage came second chance points, as they scored 16 points after offensive rebounds in the game, compared to just seven for the Tigers.
 
Ouachita returns to the hardwood on Saturday, when they continue their road swing against the University of Arkansas-Monticello. Tip-off is scheduled for 4 p.m. in Monticello, Arkansas.
 
-Josh Fink, Sports Information Director