I make no secret that I am a proud alum of the College of the Ozarks. And, even though I am frequently at the school, Homecoming is still a special time. This year, especially, as it marks 25 years since I received my degree from the school.
The weekend got off to a great start as the Cats and Lady Cats both beat their Nationally ranked opponents from Tabor.
Coach Becky Vest loaded the opening part of the Lady Cats schedule and they have been up to the task. Just days after defeating NAIA D1 #9 Lyon on the road they Lady Cats welcomed NAIA D2#10 Tabor to the Howell Keeter Athletic Complex. Led by the strong inside game of Junior, Lakin Simmerman (21pts on 8 of 12 shooting) the Lady Cats built a 20 pt second half lead and held on for a 68-58 victory. The steady play of Kelsie Cleeton continued. She picked up another double-double netting ten points and ten boards. The victory keeps C of O perfect 4-0 on the season. They will be home again on Monday night against Willam Woods.
Then the Bobcats took the floor and completed the sweep 95-83. Steve Shepherd’s club also welcomed the #10 ranked team in the Nation to campus. A game that saw runs from both schools was very much in doubt until Cameron Paschke took over. The senior guard from Fayetteville, AR went on a shooting tear in the second half. By the end of the night Paschke had totaled a career high 36 points including 5 three pointers, the last of which came from nearly 30 feet out. Ethan Davidson had 23 points to go along with 10 rebounds and Canyon Smith also had a nice night, chipping in with 14 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 steals.
The Bobcats move to 3-1 on the season and now ready themselves for the first on two games against Evangel. That game will take place Tuesday Night at the Ashcroft Center in Springfield.
