SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (Interstat) — The Western Nebraska men’s basketball team defeated Otero 87-78 on Thursday night.

The Cougars used a more efficient offensive performance to secure the home victory, posting an offensive rating of 112.2 on 78 possessions. The Rattlers finished with a 109.2 offensive rating. Western Nebraska shot 46.4% from the field and made 11 three-pointers. Otero shot 41.3% and was led by Bertran Walthour Jr., who scored 27 points.

Western Nebraska improved to 7-18 this season. Otero fell to 3-17.