Just when Southwestern had fought back from an eight-point deficit to tie the game with six minutes left, Central Nebraska made two crucial plays in a 66-54 victory over the Spartan men here Wednesday night.

Sophomore guard Marcus Littleton sank two 3-pointers and Devin Kastrup converted a pump-fake jumper to pull Southwestern even at 51-51 after trailing 51-43.

The Spartans seemed to have the momentum against the taller, faster Raiders. In the final six minutes, it would come down to execution, which plays to Southwestern’s strength.