McPherson, Kan. – The Bulldogs were back at home on Friday and Saturday to host the McPherson Classic, entering the weekend with a 1-0 record following an 81-79 victory over Hesston on Tuesday. Their opponents, Randall University and Cottey College, came into the weekend with a combined 1-4 record, as Cottey looked to secure its first win on the season.
Friday, October 31
The Basics
Location: Holman Fieldhouse
Score: MC 79, RU 52
Records:
How it Happened
Gillian Rodgers led the Bulldogs with ten points, shooting 50% from both the field (4/8) and from beyond the arc (2/4), while also adding two rebounds and a steal.
Amyah Williams-Woodmore and Rosa Isabella each contributed nine points to the effort.
McPherson dominated the paint, shooting 41% from the floor and scoring 40 of their 79 points inside, but struggled from the three-point range, going 5 of 24, compared to Randall's 8 for 30. The Bulldogs also capitalized on the Saints' mistakes, converting 27 points off 35 Randall turnovers.
The Bulldogs took an early lead in the first quarter before the Saints managed to cut the deficit in half. McPherson responded with a 7-2 run to close out the quarter ahead 16-9. The Bulldogs carried that momentum into the second period, opening with three quick points from two Rosa free throws and a jumper from
Amaree Henderson following a Saints turnover. McPherson continued to dominate on both ends of the floor, stretching the lead to 19 by halftime after a late three-pointer from
Dana Imankulova.
Out of the break, Randall scored the first four points of the third quarter, but the Bulldogs quickly responded matching the Saints point for point and extending their lead to 24 thanks to a pair of three pointers from Rodgers. McPherson maintained control heading into the final quarter, pushing their advantage to and astounding 31 points. The Saints caught fire late, knocking down five threes in the closing minute, but it wasn't enough as the Bulldogs secured a 79-52 victory.
Saturday, November 1
The Basics
Location: Holman Fieldhouse
Score: MC 77, CC 47
Records: MC 3-0 (KCAC 0-0), CC 0-4 (AMC 0-0)
How it Happened
The Bulldogs once again showed their dominance from the field, shooting 47 % and scoring 44 of their 77 points in the paint. McPherson came out strong in the first half, shooting over 50% percent in both quarters and connecting on five three-pointers. The Bulldogs' defense was equally impressive, forcing eight Cottey turnovers and converting them into 18 points, helping them build a commanding 47-22 lead at the half.
McPherson opened the second half a bit sluggish, managing just five made shots and going one for two from the free-throw line. Meanwhile, the Comets found their rhythm, posting their best quarter of the game, outscoring the Bulldogs and shooting 50% from both the field and beyond the arc. Despite the push from Cottey College, McPherson maintained control and carried a 23-point advantage into the final period. A layup by
Amaree Henderson to start the fourth quarter reignited the Bulldogs' offense, as they outscored the Comets 19-12 down the stretch to seal a decisive 77-47 victory.
Up Next
McPherson will be back at home on Tuesday night to take on Central Christian College for another matchup in the Collegiate Cup. Tipoff is set for 6:00 PM.
