Point Lookout, MO - The College of the Ozarks men’s basketball team earned an impressive win over Oklahoma Panhandle State in their SAC season opener on Thursday. The Bobcats put on a strong performance in front of their home crowd and came away with a 73-56 win.

Oklahoma Panhandle State struck first with an early jumper by Aaron Williams Jr., but the Bobcats quickly settled into a rhythm behind a strong stretch of play from Garrett Snyder. The Bobcats erased the early deficit and built a seven-point advantage during the period before closing the half with a narrow 28–27 lead. Jay Baxter added a key layup, set up by DJ Quarles, that helped maintain the team’s momentum.

The Bobcats began to pull away in the seconf half as Andrew Dalton knocked down key three-pointers to push the lead higher. Jay Baxter added strong defense with several blocks that stopped scoring chances. Snyder and Dalton kept the offense steady and consistent. By the final buzzer, C of O held a 73–56 lead. The team’s defense, rebounding from Themba Tshuma, and balanced scoring showed the Bobcats’ strengths throughout the half.

Garrett Snyder led all scorers with 28 points, while Andrew Dalton added 18 points and Themba Tshuma recorded a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds. DJ Quarles contributed five assists and added strong defensive pressure with a steal.

The College of the Ozarks Bobcats will host Wayland Baptist University on Saturday, as they look to carry their momentum forward. Entering the matchup at 2–2 overall and 1–0 in SAC play, the Bobcats aim to keep building confidence and strengthen their position in the conference race.