CONCORDIA, Kan. - The Independence Men's Basketball team suffered their worst loss of the season Saturday afternoon, as they fell 94-64, to Cloud County, for their third consecutive loss. 

The Pirates struggled to ever get any momentum going as they only led once in the contest, a slim one point lead early in the first half. A tough shooting night was the main factor in the defeat, while Cloud County had a very efficient night, shooting over 50% from the field. The Pirates only converted 24 of their 81 shots, good for 29% from the field, including going 4-23 from deep. 

The Pirates were within striking distance for the majority of the first half, as they trailed by just four at the four minute mark of the first half, but a 16-6 Thunderbird run to close out the half, pushed the lead to double digits and sparked a massive second half, where Cloud County ran away with the victory. 

Sterling Knox once again led the Pirates in scoring with 14 points, while Sekou Kourouma was the only other Pirate in double figures, with 13 off of the bench. Zion Dixon had a solid showing, as he pitched in six points, four rebounds, three assists and three steals. 

The Pirates, now 7-5 in KJCCC play, will begin the second turn through the conference schedule as they now prepare for a rematch with Colby on Wednesday. The Pirates defeated the Trojans 102-87, back on November 19th to begin KJCCC play.