York, Neb. – It wasn't the prettiest of victories, but the McPherson College men's basketball team got back into the winning column with a 65-60 road win at York College.
The Bulldogs had a double digit lead in the opening frame, but settled for a 33-30 advantage heading into the locker room.
In the second half, they again pushed the lead back out to double digits, but some sloppy play, and missed opportunities, opened the door for the Panthers to get back into the game.
With 44 ticks remaining, the Bulldogs clung to a two point lead, 62-60 but the Panthers had the ball. A steal out front by Travon Shelvin (Jr. Houston, Texas) led to a runout and a layup that put the Bulldogs up by four. After a missed shot by the Panthers on the next possession, Fred Watts (Sr. Houston, Texas) was fouled on the rebound. Fred split a pair of free throws putting the Bulldogs up by five.
Key Statistic
The Bulldogs pounded the glass, coming away with 46 boards, 12 of them on the offensive end which they turned into 11 second chance points.
By the Numbers
The Bulldogs shot 37% from the floor, knocking down 22 of 59, and were 38% from three point range, making 11 of their 29 tries.
They struggled from the charity stripe, going just 10 for 21 for 47%.
Four Bulldogs scored in double figures, led by Gage Maccoy (Sr. Lenexa, Kan.) who knocked down five three pointers on his way to 17 points.
Bulldog Leaders
Points: Gage Maccoy (17)
Rebounds: Myles McCrary (10)
Assists: Travon Shelvin (3)
Steals: Myles McCrary, Rock Hardison (2)
Blocks: Fred Watts (1)
Coach Quote
"I am very happy that we got a road conference win. Those are always tough to get. This game was played at a different pace then we usually play at. York did a good job of slowing the game down. I didn't think that we shot the ball real well but still figured out a way to win the game. Now we need to get prepared for a nationally ranked Bethel team on Saturday."
Next Up
The Bulldogs move to 15-6 overall, and 13-6 in KCAC play. They have a huge match-up on Saturday with when Bethel College comes to the Sport Center for a 7:00 tip-off. The Threshers are at the top of the KCAC standings, and are ranked #22 in the nation.
