SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — Sterling College fell to Evangel University, 77-63, on Monday, Feb. 2. Despite the loss, Sterling’s bench contributed significantly with 34 points.
The Warriors opened came out sluggish with the Valor quickly getting out to a 9-0 start. Despite a slow start, Sterling rallied with a series of free throws and a three-pointer from Ziri Blackwood, narrowing the gap. The team continued to press, with Blackwood adding another crucial three-pointer, balancing the score at 21–21 midway through the half.
Sterling’s defensive efforts included five steals, creating opportunities to transition into scoring plays. Julian Smith‘s late layup and a subsequent free throw helped Sterling to close the half on a positive note. Evangel held a slim lead at the end of the first half, with Sterling trailing 42–35.
The second half began with a significant shift in momentum as the Valor opened with a 3-pointer, extending their lead. Sterling responded with strong efforts from Smith, who contributed six points through free throws and a jumper. Amari Ndayisaba and Blackwood added key baskets to keep the pressure on their opponent.
Midway through the half, Sterling managed to narrow the gap to 53-54, thanks to a 3-pointer from Damond Daniels and a pair of jumpers from Camren Johnson. However, Evangel regained their footing, extending their lead with a series of successful free throws and fast breaks.
In the closing minutes, Sterling struggled to maintain their pace against the Valor’s offensive push, only connecting on one field goal through the final 10 minutes of play. With no offensive juice left in the tank, the half game ended with Evangel leading 77-63.
Ziri Blackwood led the team with 24 points, including six 3-pointers, demonstrating accuracy beyond the arc. Julian Smith finished with a double-double, scoring 16 points and securing 11 rebounds, while converting all 10 of his free throw attempts. Chris Drake collected a game-high 14 rebounds and contributed both defensively with a block and a steal. Damond Daniels added five points and recorded two steals, impacting the game on both ends of the court.
The Warriors (7-15, 4-12) will be back in action in the Gleason Center on Wednesday, Feb 4 as they take on Bethel College (16-6, 11-5) with a 8 p.m. tip-off.
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.
