The Coastal Bend College Cougars matched up with one of the best junior college basketball programs in the country on Tuesday night in East Texas and the San Jacinto Gators dealt the visitors a 90-73 loss.

“We played well against a strong athletic team. We just could not knock down our shots the first half,” said CBC head coach Bucky Hartman.

The Gators jumped out early and were hot from the field. San Jacinto held a 45-22 advantage through the first 20 minutes.

“The second half we outscored them 51-45, but we just could never get back into the game physically. We are making huge strides playing strong teams and getting better every game,” Hartman said.

The Cougars had four players in double figures in the tilt with Alex Horne leading the way with 16 points. Chris Sutton and Trevor King followed with 14 apiece. Jordan Merchant hit for 10 points and picked up six assists in the loss. Damarqua Hawkins played tough inside with nine points and seven boards for the Cougars.

CBC hosts Victoria College on Monday with the tip off set for 7 p.m. The Cougars also will be at home on Wednesday night when McLennan College pays a visit to Beeville. That game will have a 5:30 start.