COUNCIL BLUFFS, IOWA -- Ellsworth's attempt to end the regular season with their 3rd consecutive win came up short Saturday afternoon at Reiver Arena when Iowa Western protected their home court with a 62-52 victory.

The loss drops ECC to a .500 season record (15-15) and lowers their conference mark to 6-10.  The Region XI postseason tournament starts next weekend at Mason City.

The Panthers led for over 10 minutes to start the game.  Iowa Western took control by outscoring ECC, 13-2, and was on top by 10 at the break.  The difference was only 5 points in the second half before the Reivers hit a pair of 3-pointers to build the advantage back to double digits and that's where it was at the final buzzer.

Junior Bodden led the ECC scoring with 13 points and Ra'mir Scott, in a reserve role, added 12, his 18th double-figure scoring effort of the season.  Scott also made a trio of 3s, half of his team's total.  He and Jake Watson were each credited with 4 assists.  Ellsworth attempted only 3 free throws the entire game.

The Panthers now have the week to prepare for the region tourney with their first opponent at NIACC still to be decided.