McPherson, Kan. - Wayland Baptist used efficient shooting and an up-tempo offense to control most of the game. The Pioneers handed the Tigers a 79-66 loss inside Jerry E. Alexander Arena on Saturday evening. The loss drops the Tigers to 7-6 overall and 2-5 in SAC play.

Central Christian stayed within striking distance through the first half, trailing just 39-33 at intermission, but the Pioneers opened up a double-digit advantage in the second half and never relinquished control. Wayland outscored the Tigers in the final 20 minutes 40-33 to seal the win.

Central Christian got a big night from Chris Whitten, who scored 27 points on 8-18 shooting, including 5 triples, and went a perfect 6 for 6 at the free throw line. Jevarrick Butler added 13 points and two triples, and Jaeden Whitten contributed 8 points. However, the Tigers were just 9 of 24 (37.5%) from beyond the arc and struggled to find consistent second-chance opportunities, being outscored in that category 12-4.

Depth and bench scoring proved pivotal: Wayland's reserves combined for 38 points, compared to just 10 bench points for the Tigers. The Pioneers also capitalized on turnovers, turning them into 19 points in the game.

The Tigers will look to bounce back as they continue conference play. Their next scheduled game on the slate is a road contest when they travel to face Langston on January 3rd.