November 13, 2024
Trenton, Mo. – Southwestern Community College men's basketball team continued a challenging early-season stretch on Wednesday night, falling 104-71 to North Central Missouri College (NCMC), the #4-ranked team nationally in the NJCAA. The loss brings the Spartans' record to 1-3 ahead of their Friday matchup against Graceland University JV.

The Spartans started strong but struggled to maintain their momentum against NCMC's balanced attack and defensive intensity. NCMC led 60-37 at halftime and continued to control the pace in the second half. Despite the deficit, several Spartans made notable contributions. Theo Alexandersson Ohnell paced the team with 14 points, shooting a highly efficient 5-of-7 from the field and a perfect 4-of-4 from the free throw line. Rickey Loftin II also contributed with 13 points and two rebounds, while Erland Pagliero added 12 points off the bench.

"We started out good but haven't handled adversity well," said Head Coach Darryl Fletcher. "We have to learn how to be a TEAM on the court, offensively and defensively. We have a quick turnaround this week but will get back in the gym next week and get better."

The Spartans shot 44.1% from the field and an impressive 93.3% from the free-throw line, with 14 of 15 made attempts. However, turnovers and rebounding disparity posed challenges, as NCMC capitalized on their size and defensive pressure to out-rebound the Spartans 44-23 and create 19 turnovers.

Southwestern will look to regroup quickly, facing Graceland University JV this Friday.