March 2009 - The Colorado Christian University (CCU; Lakewood, Colo.) men's basketball team is back in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC; NCAA Division II) Final Four. Following a stunning 86-83 win on March 3 over second-seeded New Mexico Highlands University, the Cougars (17-11 overall; 11-8 conference) will face Fort Lewis College (23-8; 12-6) in the RMAC semifinal on Friday, March 6, at 8:00 p.m. in the Colorado State Fair Events Center, Pueblo, Colo.
In a dramatic game on March 3 that featured a packed arena and nearly every thrill imaginable in playoff basketball, the Cougars willed themselves to a three-point final decision. Senior forward Peter Bailey drained one of the biggest shots of his career with eight seconds remaining, capping a late push by the Cougars against a Highlands team that entered the contest 20-7 overall. Trailing 46-35 at the half, the Cougars pulled within three points twice before Bailey connected on a three-point play for the first tie of the game.
The final minutes of the game seesawed until Bailey sank the winning three with 24 seconds on the clock. The Cougars, now winners of four straight games, look to continue strong in Pueblo this weekend.
Keeping pace, the CCU women's team (14-14; 9-10) is one win away from their second consecutive appearance in the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) National Tournament. On March 2, playing their third game in four nights and absent their leading scorer, the Cougars limped into the locker room after a flat first half, but rebounded to a 78-53 win over Central Christian College. Freshman forward Kelsie Hert logged a career-high 19 points, 12 rebounds, and four blocked shots. The ladies will host Mid-America Christian University (13-19; 6-16) this Saturday, March 7, at 1:00 p.m. in the CCU Event Center.
Fans interested in attending this weekend's games should contact CCU Director of Athletics Darren Richie at 303.963.3187 or drichie@ccu.edu. Group transportation may be available for the men's game.
About Colorado Christian University
As the only member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities located in the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Christian University (CCU) provides a distinctive educational experience with an intentionally Christ-centered foundation. More than 3,400 undergraduate, adult, and graduate students are enrolled at CCU's main campus, in online programs, and at centers throughout Colorado. CCU offers 43 undergraduate and graduate degree programs that equip students professionally, spiritually, and interpersonally to be leaders in their careers, communities, and churches. The University charge is also to engage the world with the message of Jesus Christ. Across the last decade, CCU has established numerous campus-based ministries to serve the Denver area and has sent more than 100 short-term mission trips throughout the United States and to approximately 20 countries.