McPHERSON, Kan. (CCCTigers.com) – The Tigers were at back home for two games over the weekend against Oklahoma Panhandle State and Wayland Baptist University.
Against the Aggies of OPSU, similar to the Women’s game, there were still difficulties with the shot clock horn and the Tigers were assessed an administrative technical foul. The Aggies did not convert on their free throw before tip-off.
The Tigers and Aggies played each other close in the first half as it was a three point game heading into halftime. The Tigers shot just 32% from the field in the first half but solid defensive play kept them in the game and in the lead.
In a game the Tigers never trailed, Chris Whitten was the leading scorer, posting 26 points with five made three pointers. Andre Shelby was crucial defensively, grabbing 7 rebounds and forcing 5 Aggie turnovers. The Tigers would go on to win 75-65 for a conference win that was needed to stay in the hunt for a SAC Tournament berth.
The Tigers would be without Andre Shelby for their game against the Pioneers of Wayland Baptist which saw Travis King get the start on Saturday. The Tigers held the lead until the halfway point of the first half when multiple misses and turnovers compounded into Pioneer baskets at the other end. The Tigers responded well and led 35-30 at the half.
The lead for the Tigers grew to as much as seven before the Pioneers would convert multiple buckets to regain the lead and eventually grow their lead. The Tigers were down by 6 with a minute left but after two made baskets, a steal their lead was cut to one. After fouling and failed attempts by the Tigers to equal the score, the Pioneers would take the game 83-78.
Tiger Leaders
Points: Chris Whitten (49)
Rebounds: Jevarrick Butler (10)
Assists: Three Tigers Tied (4)
Steals: Andre Shelby (5)
Blocks: Andre Shelby (1)
The Tigers return to SAC play against the Southwestern Christian University Eagles on Monday, January 20th in Oklahoma. Tip is scheduled for 7:45PM and the game will be streamed on the SAC Sports Network.
