McPherson, Kan. – The Central Christian College of Kansas Women’s Basketball team competed in their first two games under head coach Mike Milligan this weekend in the Classic for Christ held at Central Christian College that featured McPherson College, Mount Marty and Champion Christian College.
The Tigers first game of the Classic came against the Mount Marty University Lancers. Coming into the contest, the Lancers boasted one of the top scoring offenses in the nation, averaging 103 points per game in their first two games.
The Lancers jumped out to an early lead after one quarter, shooting almost 40% from the field to take a 19-6 lead into the second quarter. After settling in, the Tiger offense started to find its rhythm, managing to draw fouls and earn opportunities at the free throw line. The Tiger defense stepped up as well, holding the Lancers to just 10 points in the second quarter as the Lancers took a 29-15 lead into the halftime break.
Out of the halftime break, Mount Marty found their stride and took advantage of Tiger turnovers, scoring 25 points off turnovers in the contest. Despite this, the Tigers continued to play hard and make the Lancers work for every bucket.
The Lancers would go on to win the game 62-33 but the Tigers held their heads up as their defense proved strong against a team averaging over 100 points per game. Kylee Jones led the way in scoring for the Tigers with 20 points as well as five rebounds. C’Niyah Williams grabbed 13 rebounds and Haiden Smoke had eight rebounds in the game.
On Saturday, the Tigers faced Champion Christian College and both teams came into the contest looking for their first win of the young season.
The Tigers came out of the gates with intensity as they managed to draw fouls early and attempted 14 free throws in the first quarter alone. After one quarter, Champion Christian found themselves in the lead 15-13. Central shot 62% from the field in the second quarter but still trailed heading into halftime as turnovers continued to plague the Tigers.
In the third quarter, Champion Christian continued to take advantage of Tiger miscues and scored seven points off turnovers. Kylee Jones once again powered the Tiger offense, getting to the free throw line 23 times in the game.
The Tigers would go on to drop the contest 70-59, Kylee Jones scored 35 points, tying the school record for points in a game. With that, she paired 11 rebounds for her first double-double of the year. Haiden Smoke and C’Niyah Williams continued to be a threat on defense, forcing turnovers and bringing down rebounds. Mia Kittner showed toughness in an off role and tallied six points, a steal and two assists.
Looking ahead, the Tigers (0-2), now turn their attention to McPherson College for the Collegiate Cup presented by People’s Bank and Trust. Tuesday, November 3rd at Jerry E. Alexander Arena, the Tigers host the Bulldogs. It is also First Responder Night and admission is free for the Collegiate Cup contests. The game will be streamed live on the SAC Sports Network.
