Fayette, Mo. - The Central Methodist Men's Basketball team held off No. 24 nationally ranked Evangel University 79-76 Wednesday night inside Puckett Field House. 

With the win, the Eagles improve their overall record to 15-9 and 12-6 in the Heart, while also extending their winning streak to seven, and keeping their perfect home record intact at 9-0. 

The Eagles found themselves trailing 48-44 in the first half, before outscoring Evangel 35-28 in the second. The Valor nearly forced the game into overtime, trimming Central's lead to as few as three in the closing moments of regulation. 

However, Central's defense was able to hold off one final Valor three to tie the game, as CMU earned a narrow three-point victory.

Everett Stubblefield led Central with 22 points on seven-of-15 shooting from the floor in 28 minutes of action. Jaquan Morris dropped 20 points which included four three-point baskets. 

Quinan Rieves recorded another double double with 13 points and 12 rebounds. He also added a team best six assists. 

James Jordan nearly cracked double figures with nine points while also adding five rebounds, and a steal. 

Central had control of the boards, outrebounding Evangel 39-30. 

The Eagles will remain at home when they host Mount Mercy University Saturday, Feb. 11 at 4:00 p.m. inside Puckett Field House for the annual Blow Pop game. 

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