The Briar Cliff men's basketball team put together a late second-half push Wednesday evening but came up short against York, falling 77–67 on the road.
The Chargers traded baskets with the Panthers early, but York used a strong offensive stretch to create separation in the opening half. BCU continued to battle, with Jaxson Wingert leading the offensive effort, but York carried a 46–37 advantage going into halftime.
Early in the second half the Panthers extended their lead pushing the margin to as many as 17 points. The Chargers responded with increased pressure on both ends of the floor, gradually chipping away, and cutting the York lead to five points at 72–67 with under a minute remaining. However, the Panthers converted their opportunities at the free-throw line to hold on for the 77–67 victory.
Wingert delivered a career performance, pouring in 37 points while adding 13 rebounds for a double-double, while shooting 11-of-21 from the field and 15-of-20 from the free-throw line. Ryan Kleppe added 11 points, seven rebounds, two blocks, and three steals. Trace Egge contributed nine points, including all from beyond the arc, while Colby Collison finished with seven points and nine rebounds.
As a team, Briar Cliff shot 38.6 percent from the field and connected on five three-pointers. The Chargers controlled the glass, out-rebounding York 44–32 and collecting 18 second-chance points. Briar Cliff also recorded seven steals and three blocks.
The Chargers return to action on Friday, November 6, traveling to Brookings, SD to take on South Dakota State University. Tip-off is set for 8:30 p.m.
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