Southwestern dropped a home conference game for the first time in more than three years, dating back to the 2014-15 season when they fell to top five-ranked DMACC in overtime.  This defeat came to #3-ranked Kirkwood in heartbreaking fashion by a score of 82-80.  The Spartans' home conference winning streak had reached 19 games.

Khallid Edwards made a layup to give the Spartans an 80-79 lead with under a minute to go.  On the ensuing possession, Kirkwood used multiple put-back attempts to finally score and take the lead 81-80.  Edwards got a good look in the paint that missed off the front of the rim.  After Kirkwood made one of two free throws the Spartans failed to get a shot off after a turnover on the inbounds attempt.

Sophomore Alijah Thomas led the way with 25 points while Ryan Warren had 11 off the bench.  Rasheed Barze had a solid all-around game with nine points, six rebounds, and three assists.

Southwestern, ranked #18 in NJCAA DII, falls to 22-7 overall and 7-4 in ICCAC play.  It was the last regular season home game but the Spartans will get at least one home game in the ICCAC tournament on Tuesday, March 6, at 7 p.m.  The opponent is yet to be determined.  They finish their regular season campaign at NIACC on March 3 at 3 p.m. in Mason City.