SWEDES CRUISE PAST COYOTES; AKPAN RECORDS 9TH DOUBLE-DOUBLE

Lindsborg, Kan. – The Bethany College Swedes Men's Basketball played host to their rivals the Kansas Wesleyan University Coyotes in what was a crucial must-have for the Swedes. The last time these two faced off, Kansas Wesleyan rolled to a 101-76 victory. This time, the Swedes had it all on the line as they needed to win their next two games to have a chance to make the playoffs.

The Swedes scored first and never let up off the gas going up by as much as 20 points ten minutes into the contest. The Coyotes could only cut the Swedes' lead down to 15 for a couple of stints, but the Swedes would not falter going into halftime up 47-25. The second half showcased Bethany's bench depth as eight different Swedes would score at least three points in the half. The Swedes would cruise to an 84-66 victory splitting the season series with the Coyotes and keeping their playoff hopes alive.

Kenny Haynes would catch fire from the outside going 6-8 from beyond the arc to lead the Swedes in scoring with 18. Devin Spencer would tack on 15 points while also nabbing seven steals, dishing out six assists, and reeling in five rebounds. Ellis Todd would score 14 off the bench. Emmanuel Akpan recorded his ninth double-double of the season with 13 points and 10 rebounds. Will Dominguez would swat two shots on the evening.

As a team, Bethany shot over 50% from the floor (54.1%) which was the first time since November 23 when the Swedes defeated the Bethel College Threshers in Hahn Gymnasium. The Coyotes only made 32.3% from the floor which led to the Swedes holding them under their season average of 76 ppg.

Up Next…

The Swedes have a date with the Friends University Falcons on Saturday, February 22, in the Garvey Center in Wichita, Kan. The Swedes need a victory over the Falcons, and a little help, to secure a spot in the KCAC playoffs. Tipoff is set for 7:00 PM following the completion of the women's contest.