McPHERSON, Kan. – McPherson High School Girls Basketball fell in two close games against Andover Central and Shawnee Mission East to start out the Mid America Classic tournament, but closed off with a turnaround win against Wichita Northwest to finish in 7th place.
The Bullpups fell to Andover Central 41-35 in the opening round, allowing a comeback effort by the Jaguars. McPherson led 27-23 at the end of the third quarter, but Andover Central hit key outside shots to outscore McPherson 18-8 in the fourth quarter. McPherson was led by Brooke Doile’s 12 points and 9 rebounds.
McPherson looked to turn it around against Shawnee Mission East, but fell just short falling 50-47. The Bullpups trailed by nine early in the fourth quarter, but went on a 10-0 run to take the lead. However, Shawnee Mission East stormed back, hitting timely shots and free throws to pull away. Rylie Whitfield had a chance to tie the game, but her three-pointer was blocked. Whitfield led all scorers with 19 points, while Doile had a 12 point – 10 rebound double-double.
BOX SCORE vs. SHAWNEE MISSION EAST
Following the tough loss, they had a quick turnaround for a 10:00 a.m. tipoff against Wichita Northwest for the 7th place game. McPherson led 8-6 at the end of the first thanks to a Rylie Whitfield three to beat the buzzer, but the Bullpups slammed on the gas pedal to pull away and win 53-24. McPherson shot 38%, while limiting Wichita Northwest to just 17%. Piper Alvord led all scorers with a season-high 14 points for McPherson.
BOX SCORE vs. WICHITA NORTHWEST
McPherson’s record moves to 7-8 on the season. Regular season play resumes on Tuesday, Feb. 3, as they travel to face Wichita Collegiate. Tipoff is set for 6:00 p.m.
