Despite leading for much of Thursday's contest against Bishop State, a smothering defense combined with a rough outing from the free throw line hurt the Bears as they came up short against the Wildcats, falling 97-92 on Day 1 of the Alabama/Mississippi Challenge.
 
"I just though that we didn't handle their pressure good enough," Southwest head coach Corey Schmidt said. "We had a lead for most of the game, but they picked up the pressure and we turned the ball over and that gave them some easy shots in transition."
 
The Bears (6-6) were led in scoring by Tylik Weeks who had 24 points. LeVionne Lindsey poured in 20 points while Daylen Thomas posted 14.
 
Southwest led 45-38 at the half but lost its momentum in the second. Down the stretch, Jay Kennedy kept the Bears within striking distance, nailing two 3-pointers, but the Wildcats connected on key free throws in the closing moments to maintain the lead before sealing the win.

Southwest shot 21-of-37 from the free throw line. 
 
The Bears will face Coastal Alabama – South at 3:30 p.m. Friday to close out play on Day 2 of the Alabama/Mississippi Challenge.