McPHERSON, Kan. – Oklahoma City improved to 2-0 with a 91-81 win over Hastings on Thursday, overcoming a big first-half momentum swing from the Broncos.
 
The Stars jumped out to a 16-2 lead behind seven points from Jonas Carlisle less than five minutes into the game. SaVaughn Smith converted a three-pointer for a 38-22 lead with 6:06 remaining in the half.
 
From there, Hastings attacked on offense, made eight free throws, outscored the Stars 23-7 and knotted the game at 45-45 at the half.
 
OCU never trailed in the second half after scoring a pair of free throws by Carlisle in the first 15 seconds. The Stars had a pair of 13-point leads in the second half. Jackson Hopps had a personal 5-0 run for a 78-65 lead with 7:55 to play. James Cloud scored after an offensive rebound to put OCU ahead 80-67 with 5:49 to go.
 
"I was proud of the guys for staying connected throughout the game," said OCU Head Coach Sam Kohnke. "The best teams are steady and consistent in their approach. I'm excited to keep working and growing with this group."
 
Carlisle led the Stars with 18 points and 10 rebounds. Destin Jenkins scored 16 and Brian Alexander and Hopps added 14 apiece. Smith had a team-leading five assists.
 
The Stars shot 46 percent from the field and 29 percent from three-point range.
 
Now 2-0, OCU plays another neutral court contest on Monday, facing LSU-Shreveport in Richland, Texas, at 6:30 p.m.