Photo by Lizzie Caron

McPherson, Kan. – The Central Christian College men's basketball team wrapped up the 2022-23 season on Saturday evening, falling to the University of North Texas – Dallas Trailblazers at home 67-56.

After honoring their three seniors before the game, the Tigers came out strong and led the Trailblazers by six, 18-12 at the 11:16 mark of the first half. They maintained a lead until the 5:41 mark when the Trailblazers made a layup to go up 23-22. From there, the Trailblazers would not relinquish the lead again. They closed out the first half on a 12 to 4 run to go into the locker room up 35-26.

In the second half, the Trailblazer got up by as many as 19 points, before the Tigers made a late run. They got the deficit back to within ten points, with 2:39 left to play, but that was as close as they would get. The Trailblazers hit a big three pointer at the 1:21 mark taking the wind out of the Tigers' sails.  

By the Numbers

Offensively, the Tigers made 24 of 61 (39%) shots from the floor.

They made 6 of 25 (24%) from deep.

At the free throw line they were 2 of 3 (67%) for the game.

The Tigers won the turnover battle 8 to 12, but were out-rebounded the Trailblazers 39 to 25.

Reece Warren was the only Tiger to score in double figures, he finished with 14.

Tiger Leaders

Points: Reece Warren (14)

Rebounds: Jamir Spivey (5)               

Assists: Reece Warren (6)

Steals: Malachi Farr (2)

Blocks: Jamire Spivey (1)                                                                 

Coach Quote:
 
"Just didn't have enough tonight.   We came out and were able to have a decent start but didn't sustain it for the whole half.  We went cold and didn't defend in transition good enough the last part of the first half.   Coming out of the locker room, we gave up an 8-0 run to begin the half.  Then, played catch up the rest of the way.  Our guys battled but wasn't enough in the end.  Overall, it has been a disappointing year as far as results, we had a lot of change throughout the season, I was really proud of how our guys handled it and the character they displayed this semester as well as their grit to get better each day.  A lot of our young guys improved and we are excited for their continued development and future in our program.  

This day however, was about honoring our seniors.  Reece, Demario, and Noah.  These three guys have been a joy to coach and share life with the last three years.  They truly will be missed by their coaches and teammates.  They bought into our culture and helped to drive it.  They gave everything they had every day.  All three have made a lasting impact on our program.  Very excited for their futures and happy we were able to give them some positive recognition today.  

I also want to thank coach Gardner and coach Maldonado for their countless hours of investment into our guys and program this season.  At times, a thankless job but I am extremely grateful for their friendship, knowledge, and servant attitudes.  We are looking forward to reboot for next season."  - Coach Tony Romero