HESSTON, Kan. — The Hesston College men’s basketball team fell 102–62 on the road to Nebraska–Kearney on Thursday evening at the H&S Center in Kearney. The Larks battled throughout but were unable to overcome a fast start and efficient shooting from the host Lopers, who opened the game with a 61–23 first-half advantage and never relinquished control.
Nebraska–Kearney set the tone early, scoring the game’s first 10 points and forcing multiple turnovers that led to transition baskets. Hesston found its first points on a Trent Thompson layup midway through the opening half, but UNK continued to push the pace, shooting nearly 67 percent from the field in the first 20 minutes while capitalizing on nine steals. The Larks struggled offensively in the opening period, shooting 31 percent and committing 12 turnovers, as the Lopers built a commanding halftime lead.
Hesston responded with a much improved second half, outscoring Nebraska–Kearney 39–41 over the final 20 minutes. The Larks shot 46.7 percent from the field after the break and knocked down six three-pointers. Thompson led the way with 17 points, six rebounds, four assists, and two steals, while Brennon Dodge added 15 points on 6-of-11 shooting. Dante Smith contributed 11 points and three rebounds, and Henry Snyder chipped in five points off the bench.
As a team, Hesston finished shooting 39 percent from the floor and 30.8 percent from three-point range, while going 8-of-10 at the free throw line. Nebraska–Kearney was paced by Tom Connelly’s 20 points and Anthony Swift’s 17, as the Lopers shot 59.4 percent overall and recorded 23 assists on 41 made field goals.
The Larks will continue their road streak on Tuesday (Dec. 16) as they head to Missouri to take on Central Methodist University at 5 p.m.
