Turnovers Plague Lancers in Loss to Home Town McPherson

In the second round of the 48^th Annual McPherson Invitational Tournament, the Lancers fell to the hometown Bullpups 60-51. From the beginning of the game, Coach Shawn Hair’s team was unable to establish any rhythm on the offensive end. In a pregame interview, Hair said the Lancers would have to take care of the ball and not let the turnovers get the best of them. This was not the case however, as the Lancers turned the ball over 26 times.

The second quarter was characterized by more offensive woes from the Lancers as they continued to struggle with turnovers. McPherson senior guard Jordan Hart provided most of their offensive firepower. None of the Lancer defenders seemed able to contain him. After struggling to retain quality offensive possessions, senior guard Andy Hiett led an 11-5 Lancer run to end the quarter. Going into halftime, East trailed 29-20.

After carrying the momentum into halftime, the Lancers found themselves down 15 early in the third quarter. Juniors Vance Wentz and Zach Schneider proved to be the key sources of offense for East again as they fueled a comeback to bring the Lancers within one. Key assists from senior guards Henry Simpson and Alex Schoegler helped fuel the run as well. Late in the quarter, Schneider hit three free throws to give the Lancers a one point lead, their first of the game.

Coming into the fourth quarter, the Lancers looked to be controlling the game. McPherson was able to pick up the intensity on the defensive side and force more Lancer turnovers. Hart continued to give the Bullpups solid offense and got some help inside from junior Keaton Sorenson. After East gave up a few buckets and failed to convert on the offensive end, McPherson finally pulled away.

The Lancers drop to 6-4 on the season, and will play a tough Lawrence Free State team in the 3^rd place game tomorrow at 5:30. Hair’s team will be looking to rebound against a Sunflower League opponent who fell just short of the tournament’s championship.

Points by Player:

Wentz: 20

Schneider: 14

Hiett: 10

Tuttle: 4

Simpson: 2

Sutherland: 1