LEAVENWORTH, Kan. — Southwestern College faces one of its toughest early-season tests Saturday when the Moundbuilders travel to take on No. 11 University of Saint Mary at 3 p.m. inside Ryan Sports Center.
Southwestern enters at 4-2 overall and 0-2 in the KCAC, still searching for its first conference win. The Moundbuilders will again lean on their veteran backcourt, led by senior Wyatt Bell, who averages 21.8 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists per game. Junior Evan Barber adds 17 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.3 assists, continuing to fuel the Builders' offense. Nigel John will look to continue his impressive play following an 18-point, 4-rebound effort versus Bethel College. Southwestern will look to use its depth in what is bound to be a high-pressure, hostile environment in Ryan Sports Center.
Saint Mary comes in at 6-1 overall and 1-1 in KCAC play under 11th-year head coach Troy Brown. The Spires are coming off a 76-59 road win over York (Neb.) and remain one of the league's most balanced offensive teams. Junior Kaeden Bonner leads the way at 17.3 points and 3.1 rebounds per game. Junior Cam Edwards contributes 16 points and 4.3 rebounds, while Jordan Brown chips in 13.1 points and 5 boards per contest.
The defending KCAC Tournament champions swept all three meetings with Southwestern last season, including one in the conference tournament.
Saturday's matchup stands as a significant early-season barometer for both teams as KCAC play begins to take shape.
