April 25, 2024

Conqs sweep Cowley in KJCCC opener

Photo courtesy of Dodge City Athletics

ARKANSAS CITY–A late Shawn Warrior layup lifted Dodge City’s men to a 64-60 win at Cowley Saturday, and the women rolled 85-54 in a doubleheader at W.S. Scott Auditorium.

In the men’s game, with the score tied at 60, DJ Jones threaded a baseline pass to Warrior for a layup with 10 seconds remaining, giving Dodge City a two point lead. Cowley turned it over in the front court and fouled Jason Edwards, who made both free throws to seal the 64-60 win.

Both teams struggled mightily to shoot at a consistent clip, with Dodge City making just 34.3% from the field, including 1-of-16 from the three point line. Cowley shot 37.1%.

The Conqs continued their string of turning takeaways into fast break points, scoring 14 points off 15 Cowley turnovers.

Jason Edwards earned his first start of the season Saturday, and with good reason. He notched a game-high 23 points, including a perfect 9-for-9 at the free throw line.

Saturday’s win marked Dodge City’s first in Arkansas City since 2016.

The Conquistadors improve to 5-1 (1-0 KJCCC) with the win and return to action Tuesday when they host No. 8 Coffeyville. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. CT.

In the women’s game, Dodge City got out to a lackluster start, which ended in the Conqs trailing 15-12 at the end of the first quarter. They quickly turned that around though and outscored Cowley 24-6 in the second frame and cruised in the second half.

Bree Stephens finished one point shy of a career high, tallying a game-high 21 points on 9-of-15 shooting from the floor and 3-for-7 from deep. The Mafua sisters – Jenna Rose and Leah – combined for 31 points.

Dodge City entered the game fifth nationally in three-pointers made per game, averaging nine through their first six games. For the second straight game, the Conqs went over that mark, knocking down 12 threes to key the offense.

Saturday’s win was Dodge City’s third straight over Cowley and the second-largest margin of victory in a conference game under Landon Steele.

The Conquistadors improve to 6-1 (1-0 KJCCC) with the win and return to action Tuesday when they host Coffeyville. Tipoff is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. CT.