The Butler Grizzlies were defeated at home for the first time this season, falling to the eighth ranked Dodge City Conquistadors, 83-77 at the Power Plant on Saturday.
The Grizzlies were led by Isaiah Williams, who scored a career high 28 points. Five Grizzlies players finished in double digits, as Keyon Thomas had 12 and Marque English had 11, while Jaden Okon and Eden Holt both had 10.
The Grizzlies were not able to overcome a hot shooting Dodge City performance, as the Conquistadors shot 58% in the second half, and made all attempts from behind the three point line, pulling away at the end of the game after the two teams were tied at the half. Dodge City would finish 57% from the field and finish the game with five threes, in a tightly contested game that featured nine ties and seven lead changes, with neither team leading by more than six.
The Grizzlies finished with 15 offensive rebounds, and 11 second chance points, as the Grizzlies won the rebound battle 33-25. English led the Grizzlies on the glass with eight, and the Grizzlies did not give up a single second chance point. The Grizzlies also forced 10 Conquistador turnovers and cashed in 16 points off turnovers. The Grizzlies had no answer inside however, as Dodge City rattled off 50 points in the paint.
The loss drops Butler to 16-6 on the year, and 10-6 in conference play. The Grizzlies record at home will fall to 11-1 on the year, and will snap a two game win streak.The Grizzlies will look to bounce back as they head on the road to face bitter rivals Coffeyville on Monday, hoping to sweep the defending national champions after winning against the Ravens at home in December.