Broncbusters Drop Road Test at Pratt, 88-79

Photo by: Adam Shrimplin/Garden City Athletics.

Pratt, KS — Garden City Community College couldn't overcome a red-hot opening half from Pratt Community College, as the Broncbusters dropped an 88-79 decision on the road Monday afternoon. GCCC trailed 49-42 at the break and was unable to fully close the gap down the stretch.

Garden City came out aggressive defensively early, turning a first-minute Pratt turnover into a quick bucket from Lucas Kalimba, then followed it up with a Devonte Reed three to grab a 7-2 lead. But Pratt answered with energy on the glass and a steady stream of paint touches, using multiple second-chance opportunities to flip momentum and build separation.

The Beavers' efficiency in the first half made the difference. Pratt shot 57.1% before halftime and hit timely threes to stretch the floor, while Garden City had to work for quality looks and left points at the line.

In the second half, the Broncbusters continued to battle and found offensive sparks from their depth, trimming the deficit with stops and transition chances. GCCC finished with 19 fast-break points and matched Pratt with 16 second-chance points, but the Beavers' shot-making and steady scoring pace kept Garden City from getting over the hump.

Dasean Lewis led GCCC with 19 points, adding three assists and two steals, while Reed scored 13 and Kalimba added 10 with four steals. Zaire Lott chipped in eight points off the bench, and the Broncbusters' reserves accounted for the bulk of the production as Garden City posted 79 bench points in the game.

Pratt was paced by Seydina Faye's 20 points, with Scottie Guillory (18), Kisean Robinson (17), and Galvin Luketa (15) all finishing in double figures.

Garden City (12-8, 7-7) now turns the page with a chance to respond back home. Next up, the Broncbusters return to Conestoga Arena this Wednesday to host Fort Hays Tech Northwest.