The Lions (16-9, 10-6 MIAA) were out scored 51-31 in the second half as the Bearcats (18-7, 10-6 MIAA) forced 12 second half turnovers and scored 28 points over the course of the game off of Southern miscues.

After trailing 26-25 at the break, Southern fought back and went on a 9-2 run capped off by a free throw from Skyler Bowlin to tie the game at 36 at the 16:34 mark. Those free throws came courtesy of Tappmeyer's first technical. Just thirty seconds later, however, the coach picked up his second, and Tyler Ryerson cashed in on the two freebies to give the Lions a two point lead at 38-36.

Tappmeyer's departure seemed to fuel the Bearcats and after the game was tied again at 41, Northwest went on a 21-5 run to take a 16 point lead (62-46) with six minutes to go. The Lions cut the lead back to 15 after a three from Bowlin made the score 64-49, but wouldn't get any closer.

Southern was led in scoring by 14 points from Vincent Ateba. The junior added seven rebounds on 4-8 shooting and 6-8 from the free-throw line. TJ Britton, playing in his last game at home, scored 11 and added three assists and three steals in 33 minutes of play.

Hunter Henry led the Bearcats with 20 points, while Matt Withers and Lance Sullivan scored 17 and 15 points, respectively.

Southern will be back in action this week with the final two games of the regular season. The Lions will first make the short trip to Pittsburg on Wednesday to take on the Gorillas. Tip off is slated for 7:30 pm from John Lance Arena.