On the strength of five players in double figures, the LeTourneau University men's basketball team overcame a 13-point halftime deficit to post an 83-74 win over host McMurry on Thursday in Abilene.
 
The YellowJackets (3-5) went on a 19-6 run midway through the second half on the strength of five 3-pointers for its first lead since the first three minutes of the game. The run put LeTourneau ahead for the rest of the game that saw the host War Hawks come as close as four in the final minutes of the game.
 
LETU sophomore Alec Colhoff (pictured; photo by Jay Spencer) had a team-high 18 points including four 3-pointers to lead the YellowJackets. Senior Giovanny Thompson (15 points), junior Jeff Martin (14 points), senior C.J. Edwards (13 points) and freshman Caleb Loggins (10 points) all scored in double figures. Colhoff nearly had a double double with nine rebounds; plus Martin also had five assists in the win.  
 
The War Hawks (1-5) were led by the 18-point effort by LaRandall Scroggins in the loss. Nate Estrada and Thierry Tchenko added 16 and 14 points, respectively.
 
McMurry built a 44-31 lead at the halftime break, shooting at a blistering 58.6% (17-for-29) clip and 10 points by Scroggings which prompted an adjustment by the LETU coaching staff, explained YellowJackets head coach Dan Miller. "The first half we couldn't stop Scroggins and we were not solid on our offense. We made an adjustment and doubled Scoggins up in the second half to slow him down. We really locked in on the defensive side in the second half and finished."  In the final 20 minutes, LeTourneau held McM to 32.3% (10-for-31) shooting from the field. With McMurry cooling off, LeTourneau heated up as they shot 55.2% (16-for-29).
 
Plus, Miller also noted the play of his offense as they attacked the rim and got to the free throw line in the second half. The YellowJackets went to the free-throw line for 16 trips, making 14 of their attempts. The complete team effort pleased the second-year head coach for the YellowJackets. "It was a great team win with a lot of energy and enthusiasm on the bench," said Miller.

LeTourneau will next face Hardin-Simmons on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. in Abilene.