Slow Start Turns Into Big Road Win for Warriors

Salina, Kan. – Sterling men's basketball started the night with a 10-0 deficit to dig themselves out of against Kansas Wesleyan University. Once they cooled off a hot-shooting Littlejohn, the Warriors tied the score at 12 and it was back and forth for much of the night. Kansas Wesleyan's largest lead was the early 10 point lead, and Sterling's largest was 7 in the game's waning moments. Sterling took a one point lead into halftime as Elias Ngoga got a bucket and a free throw to take the 32-31 halftime lead. Jayden Garrison and Ngoga were the driving forces to the strong second half by Sterling. Garrison was getting it done from long range, and Ngoga hit his mid-range jumper, but was also a defensive presence in the lane. Sterling went on to beat the Coyotes 76-72.

Garrison led Sterling with 20 points and added 4 rebounds. Ngoga had a good all-around night after a slow start in the first half. He finished with 17 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 blocks. He also finished 5-6 at the free throw line. Damond Daniels added 12 points and 3 assists. Julian Smith had a night worth mentioning as his long frame helped to slow down one of the top players in the KCAC in Littlejohn. Smith finished with 10 points.

As a team the Warriors shot an incredible 87 percent from the free throw line going 20-23 on the night. Sterling was beat in most of the major statistical categories, including rebounds and assists, but they had fewer turnovers and had more second chance points than the Coyotes.

With the win, Sterling improves to 8-2 overall and 3-1 in KCAC play, putting them in a tie for third place. Saturday they will take on #16 Oklahoma Wesleyan University at home with tipoff scheduled for 3 pm. This starts a three-game home stand leading into the Christmas break.

Be sure to check for news and updates on Sterling Warrior Athletics on Facebook (/SCWarriors), Twitter (@SterlingCSports), and Instagram (sterlingcsports), as well as the hashtag #SwordsUp. Watch the Warriors' live home events on the Sterling College Sports Network.