HIGHLAND, Kan. (HCLarks.com) – The Hesston College men’s basketball team narrowly fell to Highland Community College in a closely contested matchup in their Jayhawk Conference opener on Saturday (January 11). Despite leading 37-31 at halftime, the Larks were unable to hold off a second-half surge by Highland, ultimately losing 74-72.
Hesston came out strong in the first half, with solid shooting and five three-pointers helping to establish their early lead. John Probey was a standout performer, leading the team with 23 points, including four three-pointers, while also pulling down five rebounds. Terryon Stebbins added a commanding double-double with 12 points and 14 rebounds, and Ky Kougl contributed 14 points on an efficient 66.7% shooting from the field.
In the second half, Highland’s offense came alive, scoring 43 points and dominating the paint with 44 total points. Despite a strong effort from Hesston, turnovers proved costly, as the Larks committed 20, allowing Highland to convert those into 22 points.
As a team, Hesston shot 40.4% from the field, 33.3% from beyond the arc, and 80% from the free-throw line while grabbing 39 total rebounds.
The Larks will continue their conference schedule on Wednesday (January 15) as they travel to Iola to face off with Allen Community College at 8 p.m.
