SAN ANTONIO, Texas – Southwestern executed their game plan to perfection but were just edged out in the end 74-71 in the SCAC Conference Tournament Quarterfinal.

The Pirates opened the game on a 6-0 run, but Centenary eventually got back in the game and took the lead on Caden Cheramie's three pointer. SU hung close and trailed by six points, 32-26, at halftime.

As the second half got underway, Southwestern cut the deficit to three, 34-31, after Chris Lee's three with 18:37 to play. Centenary fought back and posted their largest lead of the game, 13 points, with 9:49 to go.

The Pirates refused to go quietly into the night, however, and were within four points, 61-57, with five minutes to play. Blake Scott's layup with 3:14 remaining tied the game 62-62 and fueled Southwestern's comeback further. Unfortunately, SU couldn't get the one-two punch they needed and were never able to regain the lead as Centenary did just enough from the free throw line to close out the game for the win.

Southwestern shot 40.4% from the floor for the game after an astounding second half, but just 15.4% from three point range while Centenary shot 38.8% from the floor and 27.8% from long range. Centenary narrowly won the rebounding battle 39-36 and committed two fewer turnovers.

Cantu posted 26 points on 8-15 shooting from the floor to lead the Pirates while Zach Whitlock added 11 points in his first start of the season. Chase Kocher, Sean Myers and Blake Scott each posted 10 in the loss.

 Southwestern closes the year at 8-18 overall.