Defeating Benedictine (14-13, 9-7 HAAC) would be key in painting a clearer picture for the Wildcats heading into Saturday’s showdown with Central Methodist on Senior Day. The Wildcats own a season sweep over Avila University and could potentially do the same to Benedictine with a victory. Graceland is the lone squad that owns home-and-home wins against Baker.
“The bottom line is winning Thursday would automatically clinch third place for us,” said Baker head coach Brett Ballard. “It’s their senior night up there, so they’re going to be pretty motivated. They’re a low possession team that doesn’t give up a ton of points, but I think if we play the same way we did the first time defensively we’ll be in good shape.”
Juniors Ben Steinlage and Corey Anderson continue to lead all Baker scorers with 11.8 and 10.1 points per game respectively. Senior Jack Shortell has anchored the Baker defense with 6.1 rebounds and 7.7 points per game. Baker’s defense currently ranks eight nationally with a field goal defense of 39 percent.
Benedictine enters play with three players averaging in double figures as Quaran Johnson tops the Ravens with 12.3 points per game. Charlie Wallrapp and Alex Miller each average 12.1 and 10.6 points per game respectively. The Ravens’ defense currently ranks sixth nationally, giving up 62.1 points per game.
Tipoff is set for 7:30 p.m., Feb. 23 in Atchison, Kan. Listen to the game live here.
