Despite a bad night from the field, the Sam Houston Bearkats defense held the California Baptist Lancers as the Bearkats won 56-45 Thursday night.

The Bearkats (21-6, 11-4) held the Lancers (15-13, 6-8) to 22 points in the first half and 23 points in the first half.

This win also extended the Bearkats win streak to four.

Over the win streak the Bearkats have given up an average 55.5 points per game.

Senior transfer Qua Grant continued his good form over the last couple games with a game-high 16 points along with six rebounds.

Sophomore transfer forward Cameron Huefner notched 13 points.

Even with the win, the offense was not what it should be.

SHSU shot 34.7% from the field as a team to CBU’s 30.6%.

There were reasons though as to why Sam Houston won this game.

The Bearkats outrebounded the Lancers 40 to 30.

They also shot 82.6% from the free throw line. 19-for-23.

The Lancers went 5-for-8. 62.5%.

Going to the paint and causing contact while also being physical and disciplined were key factors for the win.

The Kats will now await for the Southern Utah Thunderbirds for a match on Saturday.

With the Western Athletic Conference play winding down, a win and a loss from any team can be huge to determine the final results before “WACVegas.”

The game will be broadcasted on ESPN+ and on radio on 90.5 KSHU.

Tip-off is at 4:30 p.m. CT.