SWEDES WIN SEASON OPENER AGAINST THE AGGIES

Lindsborg, Kan. - The Swedes hosted the Oklahoma Panhandle State University Aggies for the 2022-23 season opener. 

Bethany was able to get out to an early lead when Justin Brookens, senior guard, got a steal and passed it to Malcom Clayton, senior forward who made a layup, putting the Swedes up 2-0. Justin Brookens then made a three, followed by a lay up by senior forward Solomon Clayton to put the Swedes up 7-0. The Swedes continued to tax on the points, aided by several steals by the Swedes. The Aggie's did not get on the board until a freethrow was made, making the score 17-1. Following the freethrow, Solomon Clayton responded right away by making a roaring dunk, assisted by Malcom Clayton. The Swedes had the momentum and ran with it by keeping at least a fifteen point lead on the Aggies the entire first half. Dylan Smith, senior guard, made a three pointer with a little less than six minutes on the clock, extending the Swedes lead to twenty-six points and making the score 40-14. The Swedes ended the first half with a twenty-two point lead over the Aggies, 53-31. 

Bethany did not ease up going into the second half, keeping the lead by making back to back shots made by Malcom Clayton and Jah-kez Moore making the score 57-33. The Aggies attempted to chip away at the score but the Swedes only extended the lead by taking care of the ball defensively and offensively. After a couple free throws made by Justin Brookens and a lay up by senior forward, Josh Smith, the Swedes went up 90-57. Extending their lead to 33 points with just over eight minutes on the clock. The Aggies attempted a late comeback but could not overcome the thirty-three point deficit. The Swedes secured the home opener 93-80 for the first win of the season. 

The Swedes offense was led by Justin Brookens who made 24 points on the night, by making nine shots, two of them being 3 pointers, and all four of his free throws. Brookens also had seven rebounds, six assists, and three steals. Dylan Smith scored 21 points going three for three on 3 pointers, making both free throws, and making five other shots. Smith also had five steals. Solomon Clayton scored 19 points by making eight shots and three free throws. As a team the Swedes had a 51.5 shooting percentage, shot 75.0% from the free throw line and 44.4% behind the three point line. The Swedes had 13 steals and forced 21 turnovers on the night. 

Up next…

The Swedes will be traveling to Salina, Kansas to play Doane University in the Kansas Wesleyan Classic. Tip off will be at 6:00PM on Friday, November 4th. 

- #RockarStockar -