HESSTON, Kan. - The Hesston College men's basketball team fell to York (NE) 87–60 on Saturday evening at Yost Center. The Larks opened the game with a mid-range jumper from Dante Smith to take a 2–0 lead, but York quickly responded from beyond the arc. The Panthers connected on a pair of early threes and continued to push the pace, using efficient perimeter shooting to fuel a decisive first-half run. Hesston generated looks at the basket but struggled to convert consistently, while York shot 49 percent from the field and 37 percent from three for the game. By halftime, York held a 50–24 advantage.

Hesston showed resilience out of the locker room, increasing its pressure defensively and finding more rhythm on the offensive end. Brycten Harris provided a strong spark off the bench, scoring all 12 of his points in the second half on 5-of-6 shooting, including two makes from beyond the arc. Smith matched Harris with 11 points of his own and grabbed six rebounds, while Brennon Dodge also posted 11 points along with four rebounds and a block. The Larks moved the ball more effectively in the half-court, with improved spacing leading to higher-quality looks and increased scoring output in the final 20 minutes.

Trent Thompson contributed five rebounds, four points and two steals, helping anchor Hesston's interior defense. Ky Kougl added four points, three rebounds and two assists, and Antonio Odum and Devin Lewis each hit from the perimeter to aid the scoring effort. The Larks' bench stepped up throughout the night, combining for 33 points as the team continued to battle through the second half. However, York maintained its advantage behind timely shooting and strong rebounding on both ends to close out the game.

The Larks will play their first road contest of the year on Tuesday (Oct. 28) as they take on Southwestern College at 7 p.m.