MONTICELLO, Ark. – The University of Arkansas at Monticello men's basketball team returned from Christmas Break on Thursday evening for their first game of the new year. The Weevils hosted out-of-state GAC member Northwestern Oklahoma State University, coming out with a 65-61 loss to the Rangers.

Zane Nelson led the way for Arkansas-Monticello (3-7, 1-4 GAC) with 18 points, going 5-16 on total field goals, 1-6 from beyond the three point line, and 7-9 from the line. He also contributed two total rebounds on top of five assists and four steals in his 38 minutes played.

Isaac Jackson posted 16 points of his own throughout the game, hitting 5-12 field goals, 2-3 threes and 4-4 free throws. Jackson also gave UAM three rebounds, an assist, and a steal.

Josh Denton was the final Boll Weevil in double digit territory, scoring 15 points against the Rangers. Denton went 6-12 on total field goals and 3-9 from deep with seven rebounds and three steals.
 
Northwestern Oklahoma State (4-7, 2-3 GAC) was led by Brian Free with 30 points.

Zane Nelson opened the game for the Weevils, hitting a jumper 46 seconds into the match-up to give UAM the early 2-0 lead. The Rangers quickly came back and reclaimed the lead, but saw the Weevils stay within reach. UAM took the lead after a couple of free throws from Isaac Jackson. The Weevils defense was exceptional as they continued to hold the Rangers from scoring. The NWOSU offense found some life late in the half as they started to chip away at UAM's lead. The teams were sent to the locker rooms with UAM leading, 27-24.

The second 20 minutes started off with the Weevils building on their lead with a couple of layups from Josh Denton and Timur Krupalija. The NWOSU offense responded by clawing their way back in to the lead and pushing it to a nine point advantage with 9:18 left on the clock. Two free throws late in the game brought the Boll Weevils within one at 62-61 with 19 seconds on the clock. Unfortunately, the effort would prove not enough as the Weevils drop the match-up. The final score was 65-61.

Arkansas-Monticello committed 16 turnovers in the entirety of the match.

 
UP NEXT
The Weevils continue 2024 action at Steelman Fieldhouse on Saturday, Jan. 6 when they host Great American Conference member Southwestern Oklahoma State University. The game is scheduled to tip off at 3:00 p.m.

How to follow the Weevils: For more information on Arkansas-Monticello Men's Basketball, visit www.uamsports.com and follow the team's social media channels on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

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