Photo by Natalia Ahrens
McPherson, Kan. – The McPherson College men's basketball team opened up 2022 with a 13 point win, at home, over the Manhattan Christian College Thunder. After a few weeks off for the holidays, the Bulldogs looked a little rusty in the early going against a Thunder team that has two quality wins over NAIA opponents, including the Sterling College Warriors.
With just over seven minutes to play in the opening half, the Bulldogs found themselves struggling to score and trailing the Thunder by 9, 25-16. Over the course of the final seven minutes of the half, the Bulldogs began to find their stride, and they outscored the Thunder 24 -13 to take a two point lead, 40-30 into the halftime intermission.
In the second 20 minutes of action, the Bulldogs built on the momentum they found in the closing minutes of the first half. They never trailed in the second half, and led the Thunder by as many as 16 points. In the end, they settled for a 13 point cushion, winning 84-71.
Key Statistic
The Bulldogs assisted on 20 of their 29 made baskets.
By the Numbers
The Bulldogs had one of their best shooting performances of the season, finishing at 49% for the game, making 29 of 59 attempts.
They took a grand total of 13 three pointers, easily their lowest total of the season, but were extremely efficient, making six of them (46%).
Five Bulldogs scored in double figures, led by Josh Rivers and Ja'Quan Chestnut, who both had a season high 18 points.
The Bulldogs won the turnover battle 8 to 10, but were out-rebounded by the Thunder 39-34.
Bulldog Leaders
Points: Josh Rivers, Ja'Quan Chestnut (18)
Rebounds: Ja'Quan Chestnut (10)
Assists: Josh Rivers (10)
Steals: Jason Okoro (4)
Blocks: Ja'Quan Chestnut (2)
Coaches Quote:
"I was happy with the effort tonight. We had different guys step up all night. Your first game after the Christmas break is always a tough one. Now it's back to conference play on Wednesday against a really good Southwestern team." – Coach Eskildsen
Next Up
The Bulldogs, now 9-6 on the season, will resume KCAC play on Wednesday with a road trip to Winfield, Kansas for an 8:00 pm match up with the Southwestern College Moundbuilders.
