Haskell Indian Nations University's Wacy Weeks, top, picks up a loose ball against Avila's Anthony Sansone. The Indians lost, 76-72, Monday night at Coffin Sports Complex.

After a strange start, Haskell Indian Nations University’s men’s basketball squad battled but eventually fell to unbeaten Avila, 76-72, Monday night at Coffin Sports Complex.

So, Fightin’ Indian coach Jamie Morrison, explain this one.

“We started the game down 2-0 because they called a technical foul for not having the book at the scorer’s table, so that’s a coaching staff problem,” Morrison said. “My biggest fear came true when, with 30 seconds to go, we were down two and had two at the line, and we missed them both.”

Morrison cited juniors Wacy Weeks and Jamison King and sophomore Justin Pendleton for solid play as the Indians (1-3) hung with Avila (5-0).

“It was four or five points the whole game, back-and-forth,” Morrison said.

“It was a real good effort tonight, we’re just still making too many mistakes down the stretch that we can’t make.”

The Indians will travel Saturday to Ottawa University.