STORM LAKE, Iowa – The Loras College men's basketball team secured a hard-fought 71-69 road win over Buena Vista on Thursday afternoon inside Siebens Fieldhouse.

The contest remained tightly contested throughout, with both teams trading baskets. Loras (15-7, 9-4 A-R-C) held a narrow 34-32 halftime lead, thanks to a late two-point jumper from Dylan Kurt. The second half saw seven ties and six lead changes as Buena Vista's Carter Sievers caught fire, finishing 9-of-11 from the field, including three 3-pointers, to keep the Beavers within reach.

Loras responded to every Buena Vista run with timely baskets, including clutch free throws in the closing minutes. Jared Pearson continued his hot shooting, while the Duhawks capitalized on second-chance opportunities, outscoring the Beavers 15-11 in that category and receiving a significant boost from their bench with 30 points.

Despite a late push from Buena Vista, Loras made key plays in the final moments to hold on for the win.

Pearson led the way for the Duhawks with 21 points, knocking down five 3-pointers and going a perfect 6-for-6 from the free-throw line. Tyler Bass added 15 points and six rebounds, while Kyle Kober chipped in 10 points. As a team, Loras shot 40.4 percent (23-of-57) from the field and 72.0 percent (18-of-25) from the line.

Buena Vista (11-11, 6-7) was led by Sievers, who posted a game-high 25 points. Gunner Reed added 19 points and five rebounds, while Simon Daniel and Kyle Sternberg contributed seven points apiece. The Beavers shot 43.4 percent (23-of-53) from the field and 71.4 percent (15-of-21) from the free-throw line.

Up Next: The Duhawks return home to celebrate Senior Day, hosting Simpson College on Saturday, Feb. 15. Tipoff at Lillis Court is set for 4:00 p.m.