STERLING, Kan. — Sterling College fell to McPherson College 67-63 in a closely contested matchup on Wednesday, Jan. 21 at the Gleason Center. Despite converting 80% of their free throws, Sterling could not overcome a 10-point deficit early in the second half.
The Warriors began the game with a layup from Javion Reed, setting an early pace. Despite a strong defensive effort, including a block by Chris Drake, Sterling struggled to maintain momentum. Reed and Amiri Ndayisaba contributed vital points, with Ndayisaba converting from the free-throw line to keep the scores close.
Sterling held brief leads but fell behind as the Bulldogs capitalized on fast breaks and bench scoring. Damond Daniels hit a crucial three-pointer midway through, but McPherson’s consistent shooting saw them pull ahead. The half concluded with Sterling trailing 30–22, needing to adjust in the subsequent halves to regain the advantage.
The Warriors opened the second half with a strong offensive effort, highlighted by Chris Drake‘s dunk followed by layup, narrowing McPherson’s lead. Defensive rebounds by Julian Smith and Ndayisaba helped maintain momentum, reducing the deficit to 32-28 early on.
As the half progressed, Sterling continued to press with Smith sinking a three-pointer at the 15:44 mark, assisted by Ndayisaba, keeping the game within reach at 37-33. Sterling briefly took the lead at 10:32 with Ziri Blackwood‘s three-pointer, assisted by Smith, bringing the score to 45-44.
Despite a late rally, including Daniels’ three-pointer and a layup by Blackwood, the Warriors trailed by four. The half concluded with Sterling College scoring 41 points to McPherson’s 37, leaving the home team down 67-63 by the end.
Chris Drake recorded a double-double with 13 points and 15 rebounds, while also contributing three blocks. Daniels scored 14 points, including two 3-pointers, and converted 6 of 7 free throws. Smith added 13 points and made 2 of 3 shots from beyond the arc. Ndayisaba was perfect from the free-throw line, converting all seven attempts for his total of seven points.
Next up, Sterling (7-12, 4-9) will take on Evangel University (12-6, 8-4) in Springfield, Mo. on Friday, Jan. 23 at 7 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.
