MCPHERSON, Kan. — Sterling College fell to McPherson College, 96-77, in a decisive conference matchup on Wednesday, Feb. 18. The Warriors led at halftime with 42 points, but McPherson’s 59-point second half secured its victory.
Sterling opened the first half with a strong offensive display, quickly establishing an early lead with contributions from Chris Drake II and Damond Daniels. Sterling’s defense was effective, recording three blocks and two steals, which helped maintain their momentum throughout the half.
The half saw a back-and-forth battle, with both teams exchanging leads multiple times. Sterling’s bench was productive, adding 14 points and contributing to an efficient shooting performance, converting 4 of 5 three-pointers.
As the half closed, Sterling extended its lead with a late scoring effort, highlighted by a dunk and subsequent free throw from Drake, finishing the half ahead 42–37.
The Warriors began the second half with a jumper from Drake, extending its lead early on. However, McPherson quickly leveled the score with a three-pointer from Joseph Gonzales, setting off a series of lead changes. Despite Sterling’s efforts, including a three-pointer from Amiri Ndayisaba and consistent scoring by Drake, the Bulldogs’ fast-break points and bench contributions widened the gap.
McPherson’s defense proved challenging for Sterling, creating turnovers and capitalizing on fast breaks to extend its advantage. Sterling continued to fight with baskets from Jaivion Reid and Jha’Quez Wright, but the Bulldogs maintained control. The half concluded with Sterling trailing 96-77, as McPherson outscored Sterling 59-35 in the half, leveraging its strong second-chance and fast-break opportunities.
Chris Drake led the Warriors with 20 points and collected 13 rebounds. Jaivion Reid contributed significantly with five assists and four points. Julian Smith added 12 points, including a perfect 3-for-3 from the free-throw line, and secured eight rebounds. Daniels scored 14 points, highlighted by two 3-pointers, and recorded three assists.
The Warriors (7-20, 4-17) will host Evangel University (17-10, 13-8) on Senior Night for the final game of the season on Saturday, Feb. 21 at 7 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.
