CHANDLER, Ariz.– In a tight game that went down to the final seconds, Rocky saw victory slip through their fingers in a 78-76 loss against Benedictine University Mesa.

Down by 12 in the second half, the Battlin' Bears climbed back to tie the game at 58 points. From then on, the two teams kept pace with each other. With just seconds left in the game, Jared Samuelson gave Rocky a one point lead. Yet with victory seeming assured, Rocky could only watch as Jordan Mitchell sank a three pointer to end the game in the Redhawks' favor, 78-76.

The Battlin' Bears finished the game shooting 42.3%  on the floor in comparison to the Redhawks who shot 40.7%. From beyond the arc, Rocky was good for 46.7% while Benedictine University Mesa finished with 45.5%.

Knocking in 14 of 15 on the free throw line, Jared Samuelson scored 25 points with 10 rebounds. Brandon The Boy contributed 22 points, five rebounds, and three assists. 

In terms of rebounds, the Battlin' Bears held a 38-34 advantage. Both teams pulled in five steals.

The Redhawks were led by Jordan Mitchell who finished with 21 points including the game winner.

Rocky will return to Montana to host the Green and Gold Classic. They will play The Kings University on Dec. 28., followed by Dickinson State on Dec. 29. Both games will take place at 7:30 p.m.