"Hard Work U"

When you drive onto the campus of the College of the Ozarks you are greeted by a sign that reads “Welcome to Hard Work U.” Every student at C of O pays for part of their tuition by working on campus. Today, after the effort given by the Wildcats against Oregon Tech here in Branson, I’m calling IWU “Hard Work U East!”

After failing behind by eight points early in the first half, the men from Indiana Wesleyan went to work and fought their way back into the game. They held Oregon Tech scoreless for the final 3:30 and took a one point lead into the half-time on the strength of a nine point run.

Then in the second half, they stepped it up another notch and pulled away to a thirteen point victory. Playing great defense, winning the rebounding battle, and controlling the interior is the result of consistent effort. And that is exactly what the Wildcats gave. It was the best half of basketball from this team the entire season and it couldn’t have come at a better time. Oregon Tech is a very good basketball team, ranked #5 in the nation, and is coached by the legendary Danny Miles. He has won well over eight hundred games and a national championship during his career.

So tomorrow the Wildcats will face Mid America Nazarene University out of Kansas. Once again the Wildcats will take on another outstanding team and this time it's for the opportunity to move onto the Final Four. The Pioneers are 31-2, ranked #2 in the nation, and are the #2 seed in the tournament. It will be another big job. Judging by their performance in this national championship tournament so far, coach Tonagel and his squad will be well prepared and ready to get back to work.