Eagles Close Weekend with Thrilling Win over Barclay

ANKENY, Iowa, December 6, 2025 -- Emmaus University earned a dramatic 58–57 victory over Barclay College on Saturday afternoon, using a strong second half and timely defensive stops to climb back to .500 on the season.

The Eagles trailed 28–23 at halftime after struggling to find an offensive rhythm, but a 35-point second half—sparked by balanced scoring and improved ball movement—pushed Emmaus ahead in the closing minutes.

The Eagles closed the game on a 15-4 run, capped off by Eli Mackey hitting a Game-Winning Shot with 9 Seconds left to win the game.

Emmaus relied heavily on its depth, with several key contributions coming off the bench. Colten Dobrodt delivered a huge boost, scoring 13 points on 6-of-8 shooting, including a clutch three-pointer that helped ignite the rally.

Fellow reserve Ethan Cox added 12 points, attacking the rim efficiently and providing stability in the paint. Starter Eli Mackey chipped in 10 points, while Lance Hall Jr. added 9 points, 7 steals, and steady guard play.

Despite shooting just 15% from three (3–20), Emmaus compensated with hustle, outscoring Barclay 35–29 in the second half and winning critical possessions down the stretch.

Barclay controlled much of the first half and held a narrow lead throughout parts of the second, but foul trouble and turnovers (26 total) allowed Emmaus opportunities to chip away.

In the final minute, Emmaus forced two defensive stops and secured the game with disciplined half-court execution. The Eagles' defense was the difference: they collected 14 steals and held Barclay to just 3-of-11 shooting from the free-throw line, a crucial factor in the one-point victory.

Assistant Coach Matthew Tomlinson reflected on the Game by saying, "The game was not pretty, and we did not play very well, but I'm so proud of this team for being gritty and tough, not giving up, and finding a way to win."

Up Next: The Eagles will travel to Davenport, IA, for an exhibition game against NAIA St. Ambrose University on Thursday, November 11, at 5:00 PM.