The Kansas City Community College men's basketball team secured a 79-74 victory over the Neosho County Community College Wednesday night. KCKCC's bench contributed significantly with 39 points, and the team shot 54.7 percent from the field. The Panthers kept the game close by converting 25 of 30 free throws, but the Blue Devils maintained the lead throughout, with their largest advantage being five points early in the first half.
The game began with KCKCC taking an early lead, as Anthony Leonard scored a jumper in the paint at 18:46, assisted by Ta'Veaion Washington. Darren McHenry followed with another jumper at 18:20, with Leonard providing the assist, pushing the visitors ahead 4-0. Eriq Caraballo responded for the Panthers with a three-pointer at 18:06, narrowing the gap to one point. The Blue Devils extended their lead to 8-3 following Andrew Tiemeyer's contested layup and two free throws by Jameson Fischer after a technical foul on Raziel Taylor at 17:14. Neosho's Jayce Cooper scored a jumper at 17:17 to reduce the deficit, but KCKCC maintained a narrow 38-37 lead at the end of the first half.
The Blue Devils outscored the Panthers 38-34 in the second half to secure their victory. KCKCC capitalized on four successful 3-pointers out of 11 attempts, while also converting 8-13 of their free throw opportunities. Their defensive efforts included one block and four steals, contributing to Neosho's 10 turnovers. Neosho managed to stay competitive by hitting 11 field goals, including three from beyond the arc, and converting 9-12 free throws.
KCKCC gained momentum in the second half, outscoring the Panthers 38–34. They connected on 13-25 field goal attempts, including four 3-pointers, and converted 8-13 free throws. Their defense contributed with four steals and one block, while they secured 11 total rebounds. Despite committing eight turnovers, KCKCC's offensive efficiency allowed them to maintain a slight edge by the end of the half.
Washington scored 15 points, contributing with four rebounds and three assists. Fischer added 15 points as well, connecting on three 3-pointers and securing five rebounds. Kamoni Ford recorded 12 points, making three 3-pointers in the effort. Malik Lewis tallied 11 points, hitting three 3-pointers and collecting four rebounds.
The next game for the Blue Devils is at 4 p.m., Feb. 7 as they head to Iola, Kan. to take on the Allen Community College Red Devils.