Avila Drops KCAC Opener against McPherson

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – After a challenging conclusion to non-conference competition, Avila men's basketball opened up KCAC play on Wednesday night in Mabee Fieldhouse, where McPherson (6-0, 1-0 KCAC) prolonged their recent dominance in the all-time series with a resounding 92-46 victory over the Eagles (1-5, 0-1 KCAC).

Unfortunately for the Eagles, their first result of conference play ended up a lot like some their last results from pre-conference play. McPherson was superior in field goal shooting, was much better in perimeter shooting, and dominated the turnover battle. The Bulldogs don't have any superstars, but boast a solid full team that once again steadily built upon their lead and put the game out of reach to remain undefeated in the all-time series against Avila.

The Eagles got the party started in their 2022 home opener with Donte' Simpson setting up Jaylin Dinkins for a three-pointer on the Eagles' first possession. But McPherson swiftly answered with two threes of their own, kickstarting a 13-2 run over about four minutes to put the Bulldogs in front.

Avila never recovered. DJ Pitia helped the Eagles stay in the game early, and a mini surge from the Avila bench brought the home team back within single digits around the halfway mark of the first half, but McPherson finished the first half on fire, outscoring Avila 26-7 over the final ten minutes of the period, and padding that lead in the second half en route to a 92-46 Bulldog win.

Five Bulldogs finished the game in double figures, led by 14 points off the bench from Haven Ousley, a testament to the depth and versatility of the Bulldog offense. Every Eagle that played at least ten minutes score at least two points, showing that they can spread the wealth as well; but on the flipside, Dinkins and Dylan Holloman tied for the team lead with only seven points.

Up next, KCAC competition continues for Avila men's basketball with their first road conference game of the 2022-23 campaign. The Eagles travel to Lindsborg, Kansas to face Bethany in a doubleheader; the women start things off at 5 PM with the men to follow at 7. As always, you can watch all the action live on the KCAC Sports Network.