Kansas City, Missouri – Heading out to the city for their second consecutive road game, the Bulldogs took on the Avila University Eagles over the weekend. Prior to this matchup, the Bulldogs were able to leave Salina, Kansas with a 12-point victory over Kansas Wesleyan in a competitive matchup.
The Basics
Location: Mabee Fieldhouse
Score: MC 85, AU 70
Records: MC 13-5 (9-3 KCAC), WU 10-8 (5-7 KCAC)
How it Happened
In an exciting first half of action, the Bulldogs managed to enter the halftime break with a tight 42-41 advantage. The Eagles shot an impressive 49% rate from the floor and knocked home a third of their shots from long range (5-15). They were led offensively by Gio Mack and Blessing Nwotite who combined for 27 points and 10 rebounds. Despite their rate from the floor being lower, McPherson managed to earn tough buckets and go a perfect 7-7 from the charity stripe;
Tarrance Austin would have all seven shots from the line and converted on every single one. Austin finished the half with 13 while
JD Talley put up 14 points and six rebounds, converting 2-5 three-point attempts.
McPherson's efficiency picked up greatly in the second half, allowing for them to spread their lead over the Eagles who were trying to stay within reach. As he did earlier this season, Joe Gonzales found his rhythm from beyond the arc and made three of four attempts from long range, adding two shots within the perimeter to total 13 in the second half. The Bulldogs finished a perfect 13-13 from the free throw line and 45% rate from the floor while Avila found less shots to fall in their attempt to contest the lead. The visitors walked out of the Mabee Fieldhouse with the 85-70 victory, their fourth consecutive.
Up Next
The Bulldogs will round out their road trip at Sterling College to face the Warriors this Wednesday on January 21
st at 8:00 PM.
