WINFILED, Kan.- In a thrilling showdown between Southwestern College (11-5,4-5) and McPherson College (7-9,5-5) the Bulldogs edged the Moundbuilders 78-77 in a game that saw several lead changes and dramatic moments, culminating in a narrow victory for McPherson.
The first half was tightly contested, with both teams trading baskets throughout the opening period. McPherson's Tarrance Austin and Curtis Rose were key contributors, combining for 29 of the Bulldogs' 44 points. Austin's sharpshooting from beyond the arc and Rose's aggressive play in the paint helped McPherson to a three-point halftime lead, 44-41.
Southwestern's Wyatt Bell, who finished with a game-high 25 points, was a constant offensive threat for the Moundbuilders, hitting 10-of-13 from the field. Despite Bell's efforts, Southwestern struggled to find offensive consistency throughout the game.
The second half proved to be just as dramatic. McPherson extended their lead to as much as 10 points. However, Southwestern refused to go down without a fight. Bell continued to lead the charge, scoring consistently to bring the Moundbuilders back into the game.
As the game approached the final minutes, Southwestern had a chance to take the lead. With under a minute to play, Bell hit a jumper to pull Southwestern within one, but a pair of free throws by McPherson's Austin gave the Bulldogs a 78-77 lead with just seconds remaining.
Southwestern had one last possession, but a contested shot by Bell missed, sealing the win for McPherson.
For McPherson, Austin finished with 15 points, including a perfect 6-of-6 from the free-throw line, while Rose added 14 points. The Bulldogs also got solid performances from Collin Storr (13 points) and Jamil Hardaway (11 points).
Southwestern was led by Bell, with his 25 points, while Evan Barber added eight points and five rebounds. The Moundbuilders had a solid shooting performance from beyond the arc, finishing 9-of-18 from three-point range.
McPherson (78): Austin 15, Rose 14, Storr 13, Hardaway 11, Marshall 9,
Southwestern (77): Bell 25, Abasolo 13, Barber 8, DeMaria 9, Hilton 8,
