Box Score
SEARCY - Harding's defense made a season-high 18 steals and limited Central Baptist to 25 percent shooting in the second half en route to an 86-45 victory Thursday night at the Rhodes Field House. It was the Bisons' fifth consecutive win over the Mustangs and Central Baptist's 10th consecutive loss overall.
Harding senior Matt Hall led all scorers with 17 points despite playing only 15 minutes. He was 6-of-9 from the field and 5-of-6 from the free throw line. Freshman Kevin Brown added 14 points off the bench, connecting on 6-of-6 from the field and hitting two free throws. Sophomore Matt Garner was also in double figures with 12 points.
Harding (5-4) shot 53 percent from the field and a season-best 81.5 percent (22-of-27) from the free throw line.
The Bisons' 60.7 percent shooting led to a 46-25 halftime lead. Harding continued its defensive pressure in the second half, limiting Central Baptist (3-10) to only six field goals and 19 points.
Sophomore guard Ryan Barnes scored 12 points off the bench to lead Central Baptist.
The Mustangs had 26 turnovers that the Bisons converted into 30 points.
Harding takes a step up in competition Saturday as the Bisons travel to Springfield, Mo., to meet eighth-ranked Drury at 2 p.m.
