No. 25 Broncbusters struggle early, fall to Butler 132–107 at Conestoga Arena

Photo by: Adam Shrimplin/Garden City Athletics

Garden City, KS — #25 Garden City couldn't overcome a tough opening stretch Wednesday night, falling 132–107 to a high-powered Butler squad inside Conestoga Arena. The loss drops the Broncbusters to 8–2 overall and 3–1 in KJCCC play. 

Butler jumped on Garden City early, forcing turnovers on the first several possessions and racing out to a 23–12 lead before the midway point of the first half. Even as the Broncbusters tried to counter with energy off the bench, the Grizzlies remained hot from deep — hitting 19 threes in the game and stretching the margin to 70–52 at halftime. 

Despite the deficit, Garden City kept attacking. The Broncbusters shot an efficient 57.1% from the field and placed six players in double figures. Mangok Gach was outstanding with 18 points and 7 rebounds, throwing down dunks to try and swing momentum. Jordon Nevill added 17 points and 8 assists, while Tammar Brown went a perfect 5-for-5 from the floor, finishing with 12 points and 6 boards. Bench production continued to shine as well — Lucas Kalimba (12 points), Zaire Lott (11), and Christian Smiley (11) all made strong contributions. 

Butler, however, continued to apply pressure and never cooled off. The Grizzlies scored 45 points off turnovers and received 81 bench points, led by Tim Walker II's 20 points, Tristan Hankins' 20, and Xavier Brown's 19. Their relentless effort on the offensive glass created second-chance opportunities that prevented any sustained comeback push. 

Garden City tried to make a late push with strong finishes at the rim, but Butler maintained control throughout the second half, handing the Broncbusters their first home loss of the year.

Final: Butler 132, Garden City 107
Garden City falls to 8–2 (3–1 KJCCC).

Next Up

The Broncbusters look to bounce back on the road against Independence Community College on Saturday. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at ICC Fieldhouse.