Through three quarters Saturday night, the Helias Crusaders were more than holding their own against the St. Louis Christian Cougars.
But the Cougars shined in the final eight minutes, hitting all of their shots from the field to rally for a 55-50 win against the Crusaders in the Central Bank Shootout at Rackers Fieldhouse.
The Cougars opened the game with an 8-0 run and took a 10-6 lead after one quarter. But Helias came back to outscore St. Louis Christian 19-12 in the second quarter to take a 25-22 advantage into intermission.
Helias then stretched its lead to 38-33 heading into the final period.
Isiah Sykes finished with 19 points for the Crusaders, including five 3-pointers. Hale Hentges added 11 points.
Nickeil Walker finished with 18 points for the Cougars, while Godwin Boahen added 13.
Helias will host Mexico at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday.