Men’s basketball surrenders lead in 81-74 loss against Bethel

Concordia passes against Mount Marty (photo from Feb. 2026).

Photo: Kai Olbrich

By Evelyn Rouland

The No. 19 Concordia University Bulldogs had a difficult away loss this weekend in Kansas as they went up against Bethel, who came back from Concordia’s halftime lead to win 81-74.

Despite holding a large lead in the first half and the strong performances of senior Brooks Kissinger and freshman Derek Tonjes, the Bulldogs were heavily outplayed in the second half, struggling offensively with about five minutes left in the game as Bethel managed to gain 14 points.

Kissinger and Tonjes put up 27 and 23 points, respectively, but it just wasn’t enough in comparison to Bethel’s 52% 3-point shooting and overall relentless offense. Concordia struggled from beyond the arc and was just 2-17 from three and also shot a measly 52% from the free-throw line.

The men’s basketball team plays next at home in the Cattle Classic on Nov. 6, against Maharishi International University.