MOORE, OK-- The Dallas Christian College men's basketball defeated Spurgeon College 116-109 in the opening round of the NCCAA DII Southwest Region Conference Tournament. DCC was led by Senior Jairus Allen who poured in 33 points on 13-17 shooting from the field. Taro Ford hit 10 three-pointers en route to an electrifying 116-109 victory on Thursday evening. 

In a high-scoring first half, DCC found itself trailing by one point with 20 minutes left to play. The Crusaders responded with 62 points in the second half to clinch a spot in the semi-finals. DCC shot 43-73 (58%) from the field, 15-22 (68%) from the three-point line, and 15-23 (65%) from the free-throw line. The Crusaders were able to hit timely shots in the second half. This is the second straight game in a row where DCC has shot over 50%. DCC had 52 points in the paint, 11 second chance points, and 15 points off turnovers. 

For the second straight game in a row Jairus Allen notched 33 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists. Taro Ford was lights out from the three-point line with 32 points on 10-15 shooting from beyond the arc. Tyjuan Battles had 16 points, 4 assists, and 7 rebounds. Joseph Allen had 13 points and 9 rebounds on 5-8 shooting from the field. The Crusaders will be back on the court tomorrow competing in the regional semi-finals against Kansas Christian College at 3 p.m.