Drake grabs 19 rebounds in loss to York

YORK, Neb. — Sterling fell to York (NE) with a final score of 56-52 on Saturday, Jan. 10 at the Freeman Center. Sterling's effort included a significant contribution from the bench, tallying 25 points in the contest.

Sterling opened the first half by establishing early momentum, with Jaivion Reed scoring a layup for the initial points. The Warriors led by as many as three points at 17:38, but York responded to keep the score tight. Despite an impressive defensive effort including three blocks and three steals, Sterling's offense faced challenges with shooting, converting only 2 of 13 from beyond the arc.

As the half progressed, Sterling maintained a narrow lead, bolstered by contributions from the bench which added 12 points. Joseph Oparaeke's three-point play at 7:52 helped Sterling momentarily regain the lead. However, York capitalized on late opportunities, culminating in a three-pointer with 59 seconds left, which allowed them to edge ahead. The first half concluded with York holding a narrow 21-19 lead over Sterling.

Sterling opened the second half with a significant momentum shift, tying the score at 21 with a fast-break dunk by Chris Drake at 19:40, assisted by Damond Daniels. Sterling then took control with a 3-pointer by Ziri Blackwood at 17:51, assisted by Reed, extending their lead to 26-22. However, the Panthers responded with a series of three-pointers, shifting the lead.

Midway through the half, Sterling faced a tough stretch as York built a 12-point advantage by 12:09. In response, Sterling's Camren Johnson closed the gap with consistent scoring, including a layup and free throws, reducing the deficit to 44-38. As the half neared its end, Sterling capitalized on defensive stops and turnovers, highlighted by Blackwood's three-pointer at 2:57, leveling the score at 52.

In the final minute, York regained the lead with successful free throws, concluding the half ahead at 56-52. Despite a resilient effort and key plays from Sterling, the half ended with York maintaining a narrow advantage.

Drake recorded a game-high 19 rebounds, contributing significantly on both ends of the floor. Blackwood hit three 3-pointers and collected three steals while Johnson led the offense with 15 points, including converting five free throws. Julian Smith added defensive strength with two blocks and gathered seven rebounds.

Sterling (7-9, 4-6) will be back in action on Wednesday, Jan. 14 against Bethany College (5-10, 1-9) in the Gleason Center at 8 p.m.

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