OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – The Johnson County men's basketball team tried to rally from 12 points down late in the game Saturday, but ran out of time, falling 68-65 to Highland in both team's conference opener. The 10th-ranked Cavaliers fall to 14-3 on the season, while the Scotties improve to 11-6.
Johnson County struggled from beyond the 3-point arc, making just 2-of-24 shot attempts, while Highland hit 7-of-17 long-range shots. The Scotties also controlled the glass, outrebounding JCCC 40-to-27.
Sophomore guard Massi Malterer and sophomore forward Kyler Mann were JCCC's top scorers, each finishing with 18 points. Mann also had six rebounds, seven steals and three assists to lead the Cavaliers in all three categories.
Freshman forward Brandon Mann added 1 points and four boards.
Highland's Bubba Leavell led all scorers with 23 points, followed by Chris Flippin with 15 points and 10 rebounds.
Johnson County will look rebound on Wednesday at Kansas City Kansas Community College, followed by another road conference matchup at Allen Community College Saturday, January 20.