Council Bluffs, IA -- In the finale of the 2020, Holiday Inn/Hampton Inn Reiver Classic, Barton County outlasted Iowa Western, 71-69. The contest amazingly had 19 lead changes between the two nationally respected programs, with both teams playing at high level for 40 mins. The quality of play was apparent as both teams remarkably only turned the ball over 8 times.

Barton went in to the break with a one-point halftime lead and again, outscored the Reivers by just a single point in the second half to secure the two point victory.  Iowa Western was able to hold Barton 27 points below their season average with an energized zone, and outshot the Cougars 50% to 40%. However it was once again the limited size of the Reivers that became apparent; as Barton picked up 22 second-chance points and outrebounded the Reivers by 9.

The Reivers had four in double figures, led by Kaleb Thornton's 17 points and a team high four assists.  Caleb Huffman chipped in 16 followed by Josiah Strong and Jalen Dalcourt, each with 11.  Iowa Western shot 50% from the field and picked up 38 points in the paint.  

Iowa Western returns to action on Tuesday, November 26th as they take on Southwestern Community Collegeat 6:00 PM at Reiver Arena.  Fans are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to gain entry into the contest.