STERLING, Kan. (SCWarriors.com) – Sterling overcame a tough shooting night to defeat the Mission University Patriots 72-60. The Warriors were able to be effective on the defensive end of the floor not allowing easy lanes to the basket, getting into passing lanes and deflecting passes, and not allowing many offensive rebounds for second-chance points. Sterling led in most of the major statistical categories allowing them to be propelled to victory over the Patriots. They had more rebounds, assists, points off turnovers, points in the paint, and second chance points, thanks to 16 offensive rebounds. Mission had more fastbreak points, fewer turnovers, and shot better from three-point range. When it was all said and done, Sterling had the upper hand.
Mooch Austin was the spark in the first half getting downhill and getting to the basket and absorbing contact for a number of acrobatic layups. He led all scorers with 18 points. Elias Ngoga had his best game by far, earning his first double-double of the season with 11 points and 12 rebounds, adding 4 blocks. Elijah Herron ended the night with 14 points and 8 rebounds while playing effective defense in the half court and contesting many shots in the lane.
Sterling heads into conference play with a 5-1 record. They will look to improve on their 11th place finish in the KCAC conference standings last season. Conference play starts on Saturday afternoon as the Warriors head north to take on the York University Panthers. Tipoff is scheduled for 3 pm.
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