Fort Hays State returned to the hardwood for the first time in ten days as they hosted Bethel on Tuesday night. The Threshers entered the game at #20 in the NAIA Division II poll.
The Tigers trailed just once in the first half at 2-0 and were tied at 2-2 and 4-4 before creating separation. An 11-0 run sparked by eight straight points from Jake Hutchings led the Tigers to a 15-4 lead. Aaron Nicholson and Perry Carroll added five more points for a 20-6 lead following a total run of 16-2.
Bethel trailed by 16 before closing the gap down to 12 on three different occasions but could not get any closer. Fort Hays State pushed the lead to 18 on a Nyjee Wright step back three pointer at 37-19 and had two chances to push the lead north of 20 during the first half before heading to the locker room with a 39-24 lead.
Fort Hays State shot 58% in the first half and made six of nine three point attempts and made five of six free throws. The one missed free throw was rebounded by the Tigers for a quick stick back bucket. The Threshers shot just 36% at the half.
The Tigers kept the lead steady through the first five minutes of the second half before Bethel made a push. The Threshers trimmed a 17 point Tiger lead down to 10 on a 9-2 run. Fort Hays State never let them get any closer. Devin Davis and Alvin Thompson combined for a 10-0 run and the Tigers first 20 point lead of the game at 63-43.
The Tigers were never threatened again as they shoot 60% in the second half on their way to 86-59 victory.
Jake Hutchings led the way for the Tigers at 22 points. Jared Vitzum made all five of his field goals and four of six free throws for 16 points. Devin Davis added 12 and Nyjee Wright 11.
Fort Hays State moves to 5-4 on the season and will host Avila University on Friday. The game counts as an exhibition for Bethel who is 12-3 on their season.