The Spurgeon College men's basketball team (12-4) continued their dominant season with a commanding 109-72 victory over Barclay College (1-15) on January 25, 2025, at the Mathena Student Center in Gladstone, MO. The Knights showcased their depth and versatility in front of 187 fans, leaving no doubt about their offensive firepower and defensive intensity.

First Half Blitz Sets the Tone

The Knights came out firing on all cylinders, building a massive 60-28 lead by halftime. Their offensive efficiency was on full display, shooting 52.2% from the field and 45.5% from beyond the arc in the opening period. Defensively, Spurgeon College forced Barclay into 23 turnovers, converting them into 41 points off turnovers by the end of the game.

DJ Middleton led the charge in the first half, scoring 17 points on 7-of-10 shooting, including 3-of-5 from three-point range. The Knights' bench also made significant contributions, with Bohden Duffield adding 9 points and Joseph Allen chipping in 9 points and 4 assists.

Balanced Attack Seals the Win

The Knights maintained their intensity in the second half, outscoring Barclay 49-44 to secure the 37-point victory. Five players scored in double figures, highlighting the team's balanced offensive approach:

• DJ Middleton: 23 points, 6 rebounds, 5-of-9 from three-point range

• Bohden Duffield: 14 points, 6 rebounds, 2-of-3 from deep

• Jack Chamberlin: 15 points, 5 rebounds

• Joseph Allen: 11 points, 6 assists, 6 steals

• Michael Berry: 13 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists

The Knights' depth was evident as their bench outscored Barclay's 66-21. Spurgeon College also dominated in the paint, scoring 66 points compared to Barclay's 24, and capitalized on fast breaks with 25 points.

Defensive Pressure Overwhelms Barclay

Spurgeon College's defense was relentless, forcing Barclay into 29 turnovers and holding them to just 40.4% shooting from the field. The Knights also controlled the boards, outrebounding Barclay 51-33, including 25 offensive rebounds that led to 14 second-chance points.

Barclay's Tayler Hinton had a strong individual performance, scoring 26 points and grabbing 6 rebounds, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Knights' suffocating defense.

Looking Ahead

Spurgeon College's combination of offensive firepower and defensive tenacity makes them a formidable contender as they push deeper into the season. Stay tuned for more updates as the Knights aim to keep their winning streak alive!