Sterling's strong start runs out of steam in Bartlesville

BARTLESVILLE, Okla. — Sterling fell to Oklahoma Wesleyan University, 88-70, at the Mueller Sports Center on Saturday, Dec. 6. Sterling's bench contributed 40 points, but OKWU's shooting accuracy, with a 55.0 field goal percentage, secured the victory.

Sterling started the first half strongly with Amiri Ndayisaba hitting an early 3-pointer, assisted by Julian Smith, establishing a quick lead. The team maintained momentum with Chris Drake contributing inside the paint and Smith adding a 3-pointer to extend Sterling's lead to four points at 16:24. Sterling's bench provided significant support, scoring 20 points in the half.

However, the Eagles responded with efficient shooting, particularly from beyond the arc and inside the paint, to gradually take control. Despite Sterling's efforts, including a late 3-pointer by Ethan Wiley, Oklahoma Wesleyan's offense grew their advantage to 18 points midway through the first half. The period closed with Sterling trailing 48-37.

The Warriors began the second half by closing in on the Eagles' lead, highlighted by Smith's jumper to bring the score to 39-48. However, Sterling faced challenges as the Eagles capitalized on turnovers, with Humberto Kentish Jr. making key shots to widen the gap to 56-39 by 17:31.

Sterling maintained offensive pressure with contributions from Jaivion Reed and Smith, reducing the deficit with a series of layups and jumpers, bringing the score to 47-58. Despite a resilient effort, including a 3-pointer by Camren Johnson and a put back by Drake, OKWU extended their lead with strategic plays, leading 73-60 at 8:02.

The Warriors continued to battle, narrowing the margin with Smith's 3-pointer and Johnson's inside scoring. However, the Eagles' consistent shooting and defensive rebounds allowed them to maintain control. The half concluded with Sterling trailing 88-70, as Oklahoma Wesleyan held onto their advantage.

Smith led Sterling with 16 points, making three 3-pointers and collecting six rebounds. Johnson matched Smith by scoring 16 points, converting six of his 10 shots from the field, including two from beyond the arc. Drake contributed 11 points while pulling down seven rebounds and adding a steal. Reed added six points on perfect shooting and recorded two steals during the game.

Sterling (6-5, 3-2) will be back in action against Bethel (7-3, 3-2) in North Newton, Kan. on Wednesday, Dec. 10 at 8 p.m.

Be sure to check for news and updates on Sterling Warrior Athletics on Facebook (/SCWarriors), Twitter (@SterlingCSports), and Instagram (sterlingcsports), as well as the hashtag #SwordsUp. Watch the Warriors' live home events on the Sterling College Sports Network.