INDEPENDENCE, Kan. — The Hutchinson Community College men's basketball team dropped a 103-97 game at FirstOak Bank Oakes Family Fieldhouse.
Hutchinson (6-4, 2-2 KJCCC) trailed 61-53 at halftime after Independence shot 68% from the floor in the first half, and knocked down 21 of 26 free throw attempts.
The Blue Dragons picked up its first lead with 14:56 to play thanks to an Isaiah Jackson basket to cap an 8-0 run and a 70-68 lead. The two teams would trade leads back and forth in the second half, combining for nine ties and four lead changes in the final 20 minutes.
Hutchinson tied the game at 92 apiece on a 3-pointer knocked down by Bobby Cannon with 4:38 to play, but that was the last time the Blue Dragons had a tie.
Independence (5-4, 1-2) then went on an 8-0 run to lead 100-92 with 1:02 left to play. The Pirates never let the Blue Dragons get any closer than five within the final minute of the game.
The Pirates knocked down 32 of 46 free throw attempts for the game and hit 56% of their total shots, including seven 3-pointers made.
Hutchinson shot 52% from the floor, but only got to the free throw line 27 times, converting 17.
Isaiah Jackson scored a career-high 22 points and brought down 10 rebounds for his first double-double of the season and second of his career. Jaquez Thornton also finished with a double-double, going for 22 points and 10 assists. Bobby Cannon finished with 18 points and Khalil Arnold 13.
Indy was led by Chiante Tramble with 22 points. Four other Pirates scored in double figures.
The Blue Dragons are back at home on Wednesday to host Coffeyville (7-2, 3-0) inside of the Sports Arena. The Red Ravens had a bye on Saturday, and will come into Wednesday's game after a week off. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. and will be broadcasted on KHUT-FM (102.9) and KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5) with pregame coverage starting at 7:15 p.m.