The Butler men's basketball team shot a season high 54% from 3PT range making 13-24 and 52% from the floor as they controlled the pace Saturday night in a 31-point road win over the Pratt Beavers improving to 3-1 overall and 2-1 in KJCCC play.
"I am pleased with the way we played tonight," commented head coach Kyle Fisher. "Not surprised with it because I think this team is capable of going on the road and beating teams when we play right and play well. We have a great group of guys that are capable but still, always good when you can get a win on the road."
The Grizzlies were paced by freshman DeeJuan Pruitt who posted a career high 21 points in his 24 minutes played. He was 7-9 from the floor, 1-1 3PT and 6-7 from the charity stripe. Noah Thomasson finished with 18 points, 3-3 3PT with seven rebounds and three assists. Shawn Hopkins and Keyon Thomas both ended the night with 15 points. Thomas had five assists and four rebounds to go along with his 15 piece.
Butler is leading the KJCCC in 3PT shooting % at 44.5%, 53-119 this season while also leading in FG% defense, holding their opponents to just 33.3% from the floor.
They held Pratt to 32% shooting from the floor, a point below their average. The Beavers also struggled from the free throw line making 8-15.
The Grizzlies finished with 18 assists in the game, the third time this season to have 18+ assists in a game.
"We really shot the ball really well tonight but that is because of the inside out and penetration we were able to get," said Fisher. "The ball movement and penetration allow our shooters to have more open shots and knock them down."
NEXT UP: The Grizzlies (3-1, 2-1) will play Colby (2-1, 21-), make up game from January 27, on Monday, February 8 at 7:00pm in the Power Plant in El Dorado, KS.
NOTES: Grizzlies have won six-straight over the Beavers…Third game this season to have 18+ assists…best 3PT% in a game since February 10, 2019.
TICKETS: Fans WILL be allowed in the Power Plant starting Monday, February 8th. To learn more about tickets ckick HERE
