Photo by Natalia Ahrens9
McPherson, Kan. – The McPherson College men's basketball team picked up an important KCAC win on Saturday, defeating the Bethany College Swedes at the Sport Center 90-77.
The Bulldogs, who are averaging nearly 10 three pointers per game, struggled from deep early in the first half against the Swedes. However, with 8 minutes left in the opening half, the Bulldogs caught fire, and finished the half on a 22-8 run, fueled by three pointers on 3 of the final 4 possessions of the half. They held a 14 point lead at the break, 41-27.
After the intermission, the Swedes began to knock down their fair share of big shots. They trimmed the Bulldog lead down to 1, with 9:39 still left to play in the half. As they have done all season, the Bulldogs remained calm and responded with a 10-0 run to push the lead back out to double digits. The Swedes got to within six points with 4:14 to play but the Bulldogs held them off again. In the end the Bulldogs extended their lead back out to 13.
Key Statistic
The Bulldogs knocked down 11 three pointers on 33 attempts.
By the Numbers
The Bulldogs shot 44% from the field, making 30 of 68 attempts.
The Bulldogs allowed the Swedes to hang around by letting them grab 14 offensive rebounds which they turned into 20 points.
Five Bulldogs scored in double figures.
Both teams were perfect from the free throw line. The Bulldogs were 19 of 19 while the Swedes were 11 for 11.
Bulldog Leaders
Points: Kemryn Jenkins (25)
Rebounds: Ja'Quan Chestnut (8)
Assists: Josh Rivers (6)
Steals: Josh Rivers (3)
Blocks: Fred Watts (2)
Coach Quote
"I was pleased with our ability to make adjustments after losing to Bethany just over a week ago. I thought our defensive intensity and attention to detail was much better today. Offensively Travon Shelvin and Kemryn Jenkins were both explosive. I was also really pleased with our bench and the energy that they gave the 5 guys on the court the whole game."
 Next Up
 With the win, the Bulldogs remain perfect at home this season, and puts them at 9-5 overall, and 7-5 in the KCAC. They will take Sunday off, before hitting the hardwood again on Monday, putting their perfect home record up against the University of St. Mary Spires. Tip-off on Monday is scheduled for 1:00 pm.
