Spires Dominate Second Half to Defeat Kansas Wesleyan, 80-67

LEAVENWORTH, KAN. - The University of Saint Mary men's basketball team extended their KCAC unbeaten streak to 7-0 with an 80-67 victory over Kansas Wesleyan. Powered by a dynamic bench and a sharp-shooting second-half performance, the Spires improved to 9-3 overall, overcoming a halftime deficit to seal their fourth consecutive win.

The Coyotes controlled much of the first half, building a seven-point lead behind strong rebounding and a steady offensive rhythm. However, Saint Mary's perimeter shooting kept the game close, with Kaeden Bonner and Jordan Brown each sinking critical three-pointers to keep the Spires within striking distance. Kansas Wesleyan led 35-32 at the break, but the Spires came out firing in the second half and took control of the game.

Saint Mary's 48-32 second-half surge was fueled by their defensive pressure and precision from beyond the arc. The Spires shot an impressive 48% from three-point range, connecting on 12 of 25 attempts. Their ability to capitalize on turnovers proved decisive, as they forced 13 Coyotes mistakes, converting them into 17 points.

Kaeden Bonner led the Spires with 17 points, going 5-for-9 from three-point range in an efficient 28-minute performance. Jordan Brown followed with 16 points off the bench, including three triples of his own, as Saint Mary's reserves contributed 32 points to the victory. Damare Smith added 13 points, three rebounds, and four assists, while Jason Parson II posted a near double-double with nine points and a game-high 11 rebounds. Parson also dished out three assists and nabbed three steals in an all-around impactful performance.

The Spires' ball movement was on full display, with 22 assists on 30 made field goals, a testament to their unselfish play. Bryce Johnson added nine points and seven rebounds, while Joey Schultz chipped in seven points off the bench. Saint Mary also shot 80% from the free-throw line, a critical factor in sealing the win late.

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With this victory, the Spires remain at the top of the KCAC standings at 7-0. They will look to continue their hot start in the second half of the schedule when they return on January 1st to play against Haskell at 6pm in the Ryan Sports Center.