MCPHERSON, Kan. (AP) — Derby used a blistering start and suffocating defense to roll past Hutchinson 69-46 Friday afternoon in the semifinals of the McPherson Invitational Tournament.
The Panthers wasted no time taking control, racing out to a 15-1 lead and never looking back. Derby’s pressure defense forced turnovers and disrupted Hutchinson’s offense throughout the first half, allowing the Panthers to cruise into the championship game.
Cold shooting and mistakes plagued the Salthawks early. Hutchinson went just 2 of 20 from the field in the first half and committed 17 turnovers overall, digging a hole it could not escape.
Greg Singer led a balanced Derby attack with 14 points, while Cale Clingan added 12 as the Panthers steadily built their lead.
Hutchinson found some offense after halftime, led by Lamar Govain, who scored all 14 of his points in the second half. Draydon Hippen added 13 points for the Salthawks.
Derby will face Wichita Bishop Carroll in the championship game next Saturday afternoon. The Golden Eagles advanced by edging Overland Park Blue Valley 54-48 in the other semifinal.