KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Sterling fell to Avila in a close contest, 80-76, on Saturday, Feb. 14 at Mabee Fieldhouse. Sterling’s effort included 11 three-pointers on 26 attempts, maintaining a 42.3 percent success rate from beyond the arc.
The game commenced with Sterling taking an early lead through consistent scoring in the paint and quick transition plays. Jacob Babino initiated the scoring for Sterling with a jumper, setting the pace for the team. The Warriors managed to maintain the lead at various points, with significant contributions from Camren Johnson, who scored to give Sterling a brief two-point advantage at 12:42.
As the half progressed, the Eagles responded with a series of scoring drives, eventually overtaking Sterling. Despite strong defensive efforts, including a block by Joseph Oparaeke, Sterling faced challenges in containing the Eagles’ fast break points and bench scoring. The half concluded with the Eagles holding a seven-point lead at 45-38.
The Warriors began the second half with a strong offensive push, as Julian Smith hit an early 3-pointer, assisted by Babino, to cut into the Eagles’ lead. Damond Daniels contributed significantly with a 3-pointer and a layup, helping Sterling regain momentum and keep the score tight. Sterling’s defense was effective, with key defensive rebounds by Smith and Oparaeke, limiting the Eagles’ scoring opportunities.
Midway through the half, Sterling’s offense continued to perform well, with Ziri Blackwood and Smith each hitting critical shots to maintain a close contest. Sterling demonstrated resilience by frequently answering the Eagles’ scoring efforts, highlighted by a layup from Jha’Quez Wright that gave Sterling a narrow lead in the final minute.
However, the Eagles responded with a late 3-pointer, and despite the Warrior’s efforts to regain control, turnovers and fouls allowed the Eagles to pull ahead in the closing seconds. The half ended with Sterling trailing 80–76, after a tight back-and-forth battle that saw several lead changes.
Julian Smith scored 19 points while collecting nine rebounds and making five 3-pointers. Damond Daniels added 13 points, converting three of five from beyond the arc. Jacob Babino contributed with seven points and led the team with six assists. Ziri Blackwood tallied eight points and grabbed five rebounds, including two 3-pointers.
Up next, Sterling (7-19, 4-16) will take on McPherson College (19-7, 15-5) on Wednesday, Feb. 18 in McPherson, Kan. with tip off scheduled for 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.
