EL DORADO, Kan. - The Independence Men's basketball team couldn't overcome a massive first half run by 24th ranked-Butler CC as they fell 118-63, Saturday evening at the Power Plant in El Dorado. 

The two teams traded baskets early, as it was just a one point game around the 13 minute mark of the first half at 15-14 in favor of the Grizzlies. From that point on, the Grizzlies made a huge run and never looked back. They turned a 15-14 lead into a 33-14 lead with an 18-0 run. Butler would eventually finish the half on a 52-16 run to take a 37 point lead into the halftime locker room. The Pirates were never able to make a big run to answer the call, as they ran into a bit of a cold shooting night, shooting 32% from the field and 21% from the three point line. The Pirates were also outrebounded 51-27, with 18 of Butler's rebounds coming on the offensive end. The Grizzlies had a very balanced scoring night as they had seven players finish in double figures, five of them off of the bench. 

Independence had 10 players find the scoring column, led by the KJCCC's leading scorer, Chiante Tramble, who poured in 17. Jahmari Hamilton-Brown was the only other Pirate to finish in double figures with 12 points, in 23 minutes off of the bench. Hamilton-Brown also led the way with six rebounds. Trashaun Combs-Pierce did a little bit of everything with eight points, four rebounds, and a team high four assists and three steals. Chris Dockery added nine points on four made field goals as well.

The loss moves Independence to 11-14 overall and 7-12 in KJCCC play, and they now currently hold the 10th seed in the KJCCC standings, tied with both Dodge City and Fort Hayes, who the Pirates still play one more game each against. With five games left, only two and a half games seperate the tenth seed, from the sixth seed in the standings. The Pirates will now shift their focus to Wednesday night, as they hit the road once again to take on Pratt CC, who they are currently a half game ahead of for that tenth seed.