CARNOT-MOON, Pa. — Stetson battled wire-to-wire but came up just short in a 70–68 loss to Southern Utah on Saturday afternoon at the UPMC Events Center. The Hatters (3–5) put together a strong defensive showing, recording 10 steals and holding the Thunderbirds without a three-pointer in the first half, but Southern Utah's edge at the free-throw line proved to be the difference.
Stetson controlled long stretches of the opening half, sparked by early shot-making from Ethan Copeland. After his three-pointer tied the game at 4–4, Copeland added a layup and continued to pace the offense before Sean Morgan drilled a three to push the Hatters ahead 16–9. Stetson maintained its advantage with efficient ball movement and timely defense, heading into the break with a 39–31 lead.
The second half featured constant swings as the Hatters and Thunderbirds traded baskets and defensive stops. Collin Kuhl anchored Stetson on the glass and gave the Hatters a late boost, converting a layup to reclaim a 62–61 lead inside the final five minutes. Jamie Phillips Jr. added a key driving basket in the closing seconds, but Southern Utah capitalized at the free-throw line down the stretch. The Thunderbirds hit four late free throws to edge ahead for good.
Stetson Top Performers
· Ethan Copeland — 20 points, 4 three-pointers, 3 steals
· Jamie Phillips Jr. — 14 points, 4/4 FT, 4 assists
· Collin Kuhl — 8 points, 11 rebounds, 2 steals
The Hatters close out the weekend in Moon Township on Sunday, Nov. 30, when they take on Robert Morris at 2 p.m.
About Stetson Athletics
At Stetson University, student-athletes don't just compete—they thrive. Located in historic DeLand, Florida, between Orlando and Daytona Beach, Stetson offers the perfect blend of competitive athletics, academic excellence, and an unbeatable Central Florida lifestyle. As the oldest private university in the region, Stetson supports approximately 500 student-athletes across 19 NCAA Division I sports. Nicknamed the "Hatters" after the institution's namesake John B. Stetson, a hat manufacturer who originated the modern-day cowboy hat, most Stetson athletic teams compete in the Atlantic Sun Conference, where they proudly hold the longest active membership since 1985. With top-tier facilities, personalized support, and a welcoming campus community, Stetson is where students can grow, compete, and succeed. Learn more at GoHatters.com or follow social media accounts @StetsonHatters.
