Chargers Fall to UKC 82–75 After First-Quarter Surge
The Crandall Chargers couldn't recover from a blistering first quarter by UKC, falling 82–75 on Saturday night in the second-to-last game of the regular season. The two teams will meet again tomorrow in the final tune-up before the playoffs begin.
UKC raced out to a 34–14 lead after one quarter and never surrendered the advantage. Despite multiple pushes from the Chargers throughout the night, the early deficit proved too much to overcome.
Slow Start, Strong Response
Crandall struggled to contain UKC's perimeter shooting in the opening frame, as the home side shot over 70% from the field and 70% from three-point range in the first quarter alone. That hot start gave UKC a lead that stretched to as many as 26 points.
To their credit, the Chargers responded with an impressive second quarter. Crandall poured in 31 points in the frame, shooting 65% from the field, to cut the deficit to 52–45 at halftime. The offensive rhythm and improved defensive pressure brought the game back within reach.
Balanced Effort Keeps It Close
Luca Del Bosco led the Chargers with 16 points, adding seven rebounds and five assists in a strong all-around performance. Colby McIntosh also scored 16 points while pulling down eight rebounds. Dave Hutton and Caleb Rennie each contributed nine points, while Ethan Culberson added eight.
Crandall shot 43% from the field and turned 17 UKC turnovers into 18 points. The Chargers also found success inside, outscoring UKC 32–24 in the paint and adding nine second-chance points.
Late Push Comes Up Short
The Chargers continued to battle in the second half and trimmed the lead to two points midway through the third quarter. However, UKC answered with timely shot-making from Kevahn Taylor, who finished with a game-high 34 points, including five three-pointers.
Crandall struggled to convert at the free-throw line, shooting just 40.9% (9-for-22), which proved costly in a game that tightened late. In the fourth quarter, the Chargers shot 23.5% from the field and were unable to complete the comeback.
One More Before Playoffs
With the regular season finale set for tomorrow — once again against UKC — the Chargers will have an immediate opportunity to respond. The rematch marks the final game before the postseason, giving Crandall one last chance to build momentum heading into playoff action.