Warriors battle back after slow start, come up short in overtime

STERLING, Kan. - Sterling College lost to Tabor College, 97-88, on Saturday, Jan. 31. Despite a strong second half where the Warriors scored 44 points, they were unable to overcome the Bluejays' consistent scoring down the stretch.

Sterling started the first half with a challenging stretch, falling behind early as Tabor took a 13–0 lead. Chris Drake's dunk at 16:14 initiated a scoring response, followed by Julian Smith's layup to close the gap to 13–4. Sterling then gradually improved their defensive efforts, forcing turnovers and capitalizing on Tabor's miscues.

Smith contributed significantly with multiple baskets, including a three-pointer, as the home team trimmed the deficit. Tabor briefly pulled away again, but Sterling kept pace with timely shots from Drake and Ziri Blackwood, tying the score at 28–28 with under five minutes remaining in the first half. A late layup by Joseph Oparaeke brought Sterling within one point, ending the half trailing 34–31.

The Warriors opened the second half with a defensive steal by Amiri Ndayisaba but faced an early scoring push from the Bluejays. Despite trailing, the Warriors responded with Drake's layup and Smith's 3-pointers, keeping the score tight through the early minutes.

Midway through the half, Damond Daniels and Blackwood provided key assists and points from beyond the arc, allowing Sterling to stay in contention. An intense back-and-forth ensued as both teams traded baskets, with Tabor maintaining a narrow edge.

In the closing moments, Chris Drake's offensive rebound and tip-in with seven seconds remaining tied the game at 75. Tabor's final attempt missed, and the half ended with the score level at 75, highlighting a strong closing effort from Sterling.

Overtime began with Tabor College briefly taking advantage with efficient shooting, scoring five field goals on six attempts and converting 11 of 14 free throws. Sterling responded with key plays, including a block by Smith at 4:44 and several offensive rebounds led by Drake. Despite these efforts, Sterling struggled with shooting efficiency, making just four of 11 field goals.

As the overtime progressed, Sterling managed to cut into the deficit with a three-pointer from Daniels at 2:06, bringing the score to 85–83. However, Tabor maintained their edge through consistent free throw shooting and a late three-pointer by Zach Hiebert. Overtime ended with Sterling trailing, as the Bluejays closed ahead, 97–88.

Chris Drake scored 25 points and recorded 11 rebounds, showcasing his efficiency with a 61.1 field goal percentage. Julian Smith added 21 points, converting three 3-pointers and collecting nine rebounds. Damond Daniels contributed 12 points, all from beyond the arc, and dished out five assists. Javion Reed finished with eight points and matched Drake's effort on the boards, also collecting 11 rebounds.

Up next, the Sterling College Warriors (7-14, 4-11) will take on the Evangel University Valor (13-8, 9-6) in a make-up game that was rescheduled due to weather. Sterling will travel to Springfield, Mo. on Monday, Feb. 2 with tip off to take place at 7:30 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.