WINFIELD, Kan. – The Southwestern College Moundbuilders will host the Bethany College Swedes in a crucial Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC) game on Saturday, February 8, set for 3:00 p.m. at Stewart Field House, and both teams are eager to secure a key victory as the regular season winds down.
Southwestern (15-8, 9-8 KCAC) enters the game looking to bounce back from a tough 75-67 loss to Oklahoma Wesleyan on February 5. The Moundbuilders, led by sophomore guard Evan Barber, who is averaging 13 points per game, have shown explosive offensive play all season, averaging 79.4 points per game. They have been particularly effective from beyond the arc, with 11.2 three-pointers made per game, led by Wyatt Bell and Justin Demaria. Southwestern has also dominated the glass, holding a 14.8-rebound margin over opponents.
Bethany College (10-12, 7-10 KCAC) comes into the matchup on a four-game losing streak, most recently falling to McPherson, 79-71. The Swedes are led by Emmanuel Akpan, who averages 18.1 points per game and has been a key contributor in their offense. Akpan has been a strong presence in the paint, shooting 52.2% from the field. Bethany will rely on Akpan's scoring and the outside shooting of Kenny Haynes to challenge the Moundbuilders.
Southwestern has had a strong season at home, with an 8-4 record at Stewart Field House, and will look to capitalize on their home-court advantage. The Moundbuilders defeated Bethany 74-69 in their first meeting of the season on December 14, but this Saturday's game will be no easy task. Both teams have shown resilience throughout the season, and the outcome will have significant playoff implications.
Saturday's game will also be dedicated to raising awareness for cancer.