Colorado College clinched a spot in the SCAC Tournament with an 81-62 victory over Centenary (LA) on Friday evening at Reid Arena.

With the win and a Schreiner loss earlier in the night, CC (11-13, 9-6 SCAC) secured its postseason berth heading into the final game of regular-season play.

"Tonight was a spectacular defensive effort! I'm proud of our team," head coach Jeff Conarroe said. "Their commitment to grow defensively, we have really gotten pretty good on that side of the ball. We also had some very efficient nights from some key guys. 

The Tigers seized control early and never trailed, building a 42-26 halftime lead behind efficient shooting and dominance on the glass. CC shot over 53 percent in the opening half while holding Centenary to under 30 percent from the field.

CC extended the margin early in the second half, pushing the lead past 20 points midway through the period. The Tigers led for more than 39 minutes of game time and built their largest advantage of 25 points in the closing minutes.

Senior Asher Nofziger led CC with 19 points and a game-high 11 rebounds to record a double-double. It was the Denver native's ninth double-double of the season. 

 Junior Ty Hendler added 16 points, while senior Russell MacFarlane contributed 15 points and eight rebounds. Junior Terrion Benson provided a strong lift off the bench with 11 points, and sophomore Ryan Kranz added eight points on a perfect 3-for-3 shooting performance.

Junior Gavin Carter orchestrated the offense with six assists as CC finished with 16 assists on 34 made field goals.

The Tigers dominated the interior throughout the contest, outscoring Centenary 54-18 in the paint and holding a commanding 54-37 advantage on the boards, including a 48-28 edge in defensive rebounds.

Centenary (8-17, 5-10 SCAC) was led by Quentin Beverly with 19 points.

"I'm super excited for our team to clinch postseason, they deserve it," Conarrie said. "They have worked so hard this year and have earned the opportunity to play for a championship. I think we are starting to play well at the right time. I'm excited about the road ahead. But I'm most excited to celebrate these seniors on Sunday; it's going to be a special day."

CC will close out the regular season and celebrate Senior Day on Sunday at noon MT against LeTourneau.