STERLING, Kan. – Sterling College defeated York University, 84-73, on Saturday, Nov. 15 in the Gleason Center for the KCAC conference opener. The Warriors led by as many as 22 points and capitalized on the Panthers’ turnovers, scoring 13 points off 11 turnovers.
Sterling opened the first half with a strong offensive start, highlighted by a 3-pointer from Amiri Ndayisaba at 18:46 to gain an early edge. The team capitalized on inside opportunities, accumulating 14 points in the paint, with Joe Oparaeke contributing a layup and converting a free throw for an old fashioned three-point play two minutes into the opening half.
The home team maintained momentum through precise shooting, including six 3-pointers and an 8-for-11 performance from the free-throw line. Julian Smith played a pivotal role in extending Sterling’s lead with consecutive scoring drives, closing the half with a jumper at 2:51 and a successful pair of free throws at 2:16.
Sterling’s defense limited York to 33 points, while a final 3-pointer by Ziri Blackwood at 0:27 helped secure a double-digit lead. The half ended with Sterling ahead, 44-33, establishing a solid foundation for the subsequent half.
The Warriors began the second half with a strong defensive effort, highlighted by Ndayisaba’s steal and fast-break layup to maintain momentum. Chris Drake added four points from the free-throw line, extending Sterling’s lead. Ethan Wiley‘s 3-pointer at 16:44 and Smith’s jumper at 16:07 contributed to a scoring surge, pushing the lead further.
The Panthers responded with several scoring attempts, but Sterling’s defense held firm, with Smith and Javion Reed contributing both offensively and defensively. Sterling capitalized on York’s turnovers, leading to fast-break opportunities and maintaining their advantage.
As the half progressed, Damond Daniels‘ consistent performance at the free-throw line sealed the game for Sterling College. The half concluded with Sterling securing an 84-73 victory, maintaining their lead throughout the second half and matching York’s 40-point effort in the half.
Daniels scored 21 points, including three 3-pointers, and successfully converted all 10 free throws and contributing a team high four steals. Smith finished with 21 points and pulled down four rebounds. Reed added nine points, converting all five free throws and recording two steals. Oparaeke contributed defensively with one block and nine rebounds.
Up next, Sterling travels to Lindsborg, Kan. to take on Bethany College (3-1, 0-1) on Wednesday, Nov. 19 at 8 p.m.
Be sure to check for news and updates on Sterling Warrior Athletics on Facebook (/SCWarriors), Twitter (@SterlingCSports), and Instagram (sterlingcsports), as well as the hashtag #SwordsUp. Watch the Warriors’ live home events on the Sterling College Sports Network.
