UMKC couldn’t take advantage of an opportunity to take over first place in the Mid-Continent Conference on Thursday, losing 68-62 to IUPUI. The ‘Roos entered the game with a 4-1 mark in the league and the Jaguars were 3-0. A win would have given UMKC a half-game lead.

They trailed by two with 12 seconds remaining when UMKC freshman Dane Brumagin inadvertently passed the ball to IUPUI’s George Hill. Hill was fouled and made both free throws to all-but ice the game.

The loss likely carries a little extra sting considering UMKC had a sizable lead midway through the second half. With 13:42, Brent Stephens threw down a slam dunk to give the ‘Roos a 48-39 lead.

The Jaguars battled back and took the lead with 8:35 to go, when Hill converted a layup to give IUPUI a 55-54 lead. Though UMKC stayed close, the Jaguars never trailed again. Hill led all scorers with 21 poitns.

Quinton Day and Stevens had 13 apiece to lead UMKC, which dropped to 7-8 and 4-2. IUPUI improved to 9-6 and 4-0.