Panthers Win 4 in a Row

Men stand at #2 in conference

The York College men’s basketball team finished their second great weekend of competition in as many weeks, winning four conference games in a row. Coming off home victories the prior weekend over Central Baptist and an exciting double overtime win over College of the Ozarks, Coach Delton Deal took his team on the road to face Oklahoma Wesleyan and Southwestern Christian.

“We have really begun to play as one unit over the last four games and that has been the difference,” said Deal. “It doesn't matter who is getting what done, we are all about winning as a team and accomplishing our goals.”

On Friday, the Panthers battled back from a 7-point deficit at the half to win the nail biter against the Wesleyan Eagles 82-79. York shot an impressive 53% in both field goals and three point attempts. Thadd Varmall led York scorers with 23 points and Keenan Gaskin contributed 20, hitting 10 of 13.

“I believe our offense is as good as anyone’s at this point, but we can definitely improve our defensive toughness and become a more well-rounded team,” said Deal.

The second night of action against Southwestern was also a tight game with the teams tied at the half at 37 apiece. Neither team shot well from the floor, but the Panthers were able to pull away in the end with an exciting 80-71 victory. Desmond Strickland led all scorers with 21 points followed by Gaskin with 18.

“Our primary goal is to win the conference, but initially we want to make the MCAC tournament this year. It hasn't been done here since 05-06 and we would like to get back there and have a chance to win the conference title,” Deal commented.

“Marcus Johnson has really come into his own lately having won the MCAC player of the week after the first week of conference, but it really has been a team effort. Here of late, big time contributions have come from Desmond Strickland, Thadd Varmall, and Keenan Gaskin. We preach win as a team and the guys have really bought into that,” said Deal.

The Panthers are 11-10 on the season and 4-1 in conference play. Their next games are this weekend at home against Haskell University and Central Christian.