SHERMAN, TX– The McMurry War Hawks faced a rigorous test on Friday evening, ultimately falling 78-61 to Austin College. Despite the outcome, the contest was marked by significant individual performances and a relentless effort on the glass that kept the War Hawks competitive throughout the evening.
McMurry's offensive strategy relied heavily on interior presence and perimeter shooting, as the team fought through several lead changes and ties. The War Hawks demonstrated their tenacity by securing 20 second-chance points, a testament to their aggressive pursuit of offensive rebounds. While the Kangaroos found a rhythm in the paint, McMurry countered with disciplined free-throw shooting, finishing the game at 64.3% from the stripe.
Amari Leflore provided a significant spark for the offense, tying for the team lead with 12 points. Leflore was lethal from beyond the arc, accounting for four of the team's ten three-pointers. His ability to find open space on the perimeter allowed the War Hawks to maintain offensive pressure during the most physical stretches of the game.
Dirk Johnson matched the scoring effort with 12 points of his own, showcasing remarkable efficiency. Johnson missed only one shot from the field all night and was nearly perfect from the free-throw line. His active play in the paint was a highlight for the home crowd, as he also secured six rebounds and contributed an assist to keep the ball moving through the Austin College defense.
Jalen Cherry delivered a standout performance on the boards, anchoring the War Hawks' interior game with a phenomenal 15 rebounds. Cherry's work on the glass included eight offensive rebounds, which repeatedly gave McMurry extra opportunities to score. In addition to his rebounding dominance, he contributed eight points, a block, and an assist, playing a team-high 36 minutes to lead the squad's effort.
The game remained a battle of attrition until the final minutes, with the War Hawks utilizing their bench to contribute 17 points. While the scoring run in the latter stages favored the visitors, McMurry's commitment to defensive pressure and rebounding remained evident until the final buzzer.
POSTGAME NOTES
- Jalen Cherry: Recorded a game-high 15 rebounds and added eight points.
- Amari Leflore: Led the team with four 3-pointers and 12 total points.
- Dirk Johnson: Finished with 12 points on 4-of-5 shooting from the field.
- The War Hawks out-rebounded the Kangaroos on the offensive glass 18-11.
- McMurry's defense accounted for four blocks and four steals during the contest.
UP NEXT
The War Hawks will travel to Dallas, TX, to face University of Dallas in their next conference game on Saturday, February 14, at 4:00 p.m. ET.
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