Cobbers Grind Out Road Win at Bethel, 79–74

ARDEN HILLS, Minn. (1/24/26) — Concordia used a dominant inside presence and a pair of 20‑point scorers to secure a 79–74 road victory over Bethel on Saturday afternoon inside the Robertson Center. The Cobbers improved to 13–5 overall (5–4 MIAC) with the win, completing a performance in which they held the lead for more than 35 minutes.

Jacob Cook set the tone early  as he slipped behind the defense for a transition layup, and moments later Jackson Loge carved his way to the rim for another score. The inside duo scored at will, fueling a 13–2 Concordia run that left Bethel scrambling. When Cole Holzer knocked down a corner three to extend the lead to 27–15, the Royals were firmly on their heels.

Bethel responded, battling back to tie the game at 33–33. But each time momentum threatened to swing, Concordia answered with composure. Loge powered through contact for another finish, Cook buried a three, and Alex Franson's smooth cut to the basket restored breathing room. The Cobbers carried a 41–36 lead into halftime, maintaining control despite Bethel's late surge.

The second half opened with a clear storyline: Jackson Loge was unstoppable. He scored 10 of Concordia's first 17 points after the break, with Cook matching him possession for possession. Together, they pushed the Cobbers to their largest second-half lead, 65–53, with just under 11 minutes remaining.

Still, Bethel refused to fade. Led by its backcourt, the Royals chipped away and pulled within one, 75–74, with under a minute to play — the closest margin since the opening minutes.

But when the game tightened, Concordia leaned on its poise once again.

Cook calmly stepped to the line with 21 seconds remaining and converted both free throws. He returned seven seconds later and delivered again, sealing the 79–74 victory in St. Paul.

The stat sheet reflected Concordia's dominance inside: 42 points in the paint, 52.5% shooting from the field, and a combined 48 points from Loge and Cook. Loge finished with 23 points, eight rebounds, and four blocks, while Cook led all scorers with 25 points, added eight rebounds, and went a perfect 6-for-6 at the free-throw line. Peyton Belka chipped in four assists and three steals.

The Cobbers return to action on January 28, hosting Saint John's at 7:45 p.m.