Calvin Jensen, Sports Information Director, Utah State Eastern

Photo courtesy of Dallin Grant

USU Eastern put together a valiant effort against the nation’s top-ranked Snow College, going toe-to-toe for much of the contest before ultimately falling 83-73 in a hard-fought showdown on Thursday night.

The Eagles started strong, shooting 55.6% from the field in the first half and matching the Badgers at 39-39 heading into the break. However, Snow College pulled away in the second half, capitalizing on second-chance opportunities and points off turnovers.

Sevastian Rosado delivered a standout performance for USU Eastern, leading all scorers with 24 points on 8-of-14 shooting, including an impressive 6-of-9 from beyond the arc. The sophomore guard also stuffed the stat sheet with seven assists, four steals, and only two turnovers in 31 minutes of play.

Jaxon Heiden provided a strong presence in the starting lineup, finishing with 13 points while shooting 62.5% from the field. Mark Huber added 12 points and knocked down a pair of three-pointers while also pulling in five rebounds.

Off the bench, Brooks Jones and Kayin Turner made key contributions, combining for 12 points on a perfect 6-of-6 shooting. Turner also added four steals on the defensive end.

Despite their efficiency from the field and from three-point range, the Eagles struggled on the glass, getting outrebounded 34-26. Turnovers also proved costly, as Snow College converted 18 points off USU Eastern’s 15 giveaways.

USU Eastern (12-11, 3-8) will hit the road next week, taking on Salt Lake Community College (16-9, 4-6) on Thursday, February 20, at 7 p.m. in Taylorsville, Utah.