McPherson, Kan. – On Wednesday, the Bulldogs returned to action against the Tabor College Bluejays in their first matchup following the holiday break. McPherson looked to get back in the win column after dropping conference games to Kansas Wesleyan and Southwestern. Tabor entered the contest with similar motivation, coming off a 72-51 loss to Hastings, their third straight defeat.
The Basics
Location: Holman Fieldhouse
Score: MC 39, TC 68
Records: MC 6-4 (KCAC 1-3), TC 4-6 (KCAC 2-2)
How it Happened
Tabor took control from the opening tip, with Tayton Smith scoring just three seconds into the game. The Bluejays delivered an impressive showing offensively in the first quarter, shooting at least 50% in every category and knocking down 57% from beyond the arc. McPherson, meanwhile, struggled to find its footing, shooting just 28% from the field and going 0 for 2 from deep. The Bulldogs’ only points at the line came from Olivia Bell, who sank both free throws to keep McPherson perfect at 100% from the stripe.
The Bulldogs’ offensive struggles continued into the second quarter as they managed just five points, shooting 2 for 11 from the field and adding one free throw. Defensively, McPherson tightened up and held Tabor to 12 points, but the Bluejays still carried a comfortable 35-15 lead into the halftime break.
Out of the break, Tabor added four quick points to stretch their lead to 24. The Bluejays maintained control throughout the third quarter, answering each small push McPherson attempted. With 1:26 left in the period, Gillian Rodgers knocked down the Bulldogs lone three-pointer of the night, but a late layup by Tabor’s Hailey Contreras restored the 24-point margin heading into the fourth.
Despite continued offensive challenges, McPherson delivered one of its stronger defensive stretches in the final quarter. Raeghan Borman led the effort with two steals and a block, while Kayla Hill added two steals of her own. However, the Bluejays still outscore the Bulldogs 18-15 in the period, sealing a 68-39 victory.
Amaree Henderson led the Bulldogs with 10 points, seven rebounds, and two steals.
Up Next
The Bulldogs will be back at Holman Fieldhouse on Saturday to take on the University of Saint Mary Spires. Tip-off is set for 5:00 PM.
