HESSTON, Kan. — The Hesston College men's basketball team opened its 2026-27 season Thursday, Oct. 22, with an 83-56 loss to Midland University at Yost Center. Brennon Dodge and Trent Thompson led the Larks with 15 points apiece, while Daniel Towels added 10 points and six rebounds.
Midland took control early, opening the game on a 15-0 run before Jarren Cargil connected on a three-pointer to put Hesston on the scoreboard. The Warriors continued to build their advantage, extending the lead to 35-11 midway through the first half.
The Larks responded with a 16-6 stretch, cutting the deficit to 41-27 with just over three minutes remaining. Dodge and Thompson helped lead the effort, combining for 18 first-half points as Hesston worked its way back into the game.
Midland maintained its advantage heading into halftime, leading 45-29.
Hesston continued to battle in the second half, with Dodge connecting on a three-pointer and Thompson and Towels contributing baskets early in the period. The Larks trimmed Midland's lead to 15 points on multiple occasions, but the Warriors answered with timely scoring to prevent Hesston from closing the gap further.
Midland extended its advantage to 62-40 with just under 12 minutes remaining and continued to pull away down the stretch to secure the 83-56 victory.
Dodge finished with 15 points, including a 10-for-13 performance at the free-throw line. Thompson matched him with 15 points while leading the Larks with eight rebounds and three assists. Towels contributed 10 points, six rebounds, two blocks and two steals.
Off the bench, Cargil added nine points and two steals, while Ky Kougl finished with five points and three rebounds.
Hesston shot 39.1% from the field, including 20% from three-point range, and converted 17 of 27 free throws. Midland finished at 43.1% from the field and connected on 11 three-pointers.
The Warriors held a 46-31 advantage in rebounds and capitalized on Hesston's 16 turnovers, scoring 30 points off turnovers. Midland committed 10 turnovers.
Mason Strong led Midland with 21 points, while Jeff Rozelle III recorded a double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds. Dylan Simons added 15 points.
The loss moves Hesston to 0-1 to begin the season.
The Larks will return to action Saturday, Oct. 24, hosting Randall University at 3 p.m. in Yost Center.
