Photo by Kami Wood

McPherson, Kan. – After a disappointing loss in their season opener on Tuesday, the Central Christian College men's basketball team bounced back with a 106-74 win at home over the Randall University Saints on day one of the annual "Classic for Christ".

The Tigers looked like a completely different team than the one that took the floor on Tuesday at the Paycom Center. They were much sharper on both ends of the floor and they were able to jump out to a quick lead over the Saints. The Tigers launched a whopping 28 three pointers in the opening half, making 12 of them as they raced out to a 57-29 halftime lead.

The Tigers cooled down considerably from deep in the second half making 4 of 14 of their attempts, but they found other ways to score instead. The Tigers outscored the Saints 49-45 in the second frame to win by a comfortable 32 point margin.

Key Statistic

The Tigers forced the Saints into 21 turnovers, and turned those miscues into 26 points.

By the Numbers

For the game, the Tiger offense shot 47% from the field, making 39 of 83 attempts.

They made 16 0f 42 from deep for a 38% efficiency.

From the free throw line, they were great, making 12 of 14 attempts.

Five Tigers scored in double figures, Reece Warren, who led all scorers with 18.

The Tigers did win the turnover battle, coughing up the ball just 9 times to 21 for the Saints.

The Tigers also won the battle of the boards, 45 to 35.

Tiger Leaders

Points: Reece Warren (18)

Rebounds: Andre Shelby (10)           

Assists: 4 Tigers (3)

Steals: Isaiah Rivera (3)

Blocks: 4 Tigers (1)                                                                          

Coaches Quote:

"It was great to see the ball go in and play with some more investment on the defensive side of the ball.  I thought out the gate, we did a great job playing with better pace and executing at a much better level than game one.  It was fun to see the ball move, we assisted on 17 out of 21 baskets in the first half.  I really was proud of Isaiah, I thought he did an amazing job controlling tempo and getting everyone involved, and did a great job leading all night long.  He had opportunities to score more and we will need him to, but to see him get to spots and make the right play, he really set the tone for us tonight.  Defensively, we were able to force some turnovers early on and turn those into baskets.  Great team win tonight.  Have a tough test tomorrow versus a good Manhattan team."– Coach Romero

Next Up 

The Tigers are now 1-1 on the season. They will be back on the hardwood Saturday afternoon at 4:00 against the Manhattan Christian College Thunder.