Dec. 16, 2008

Final Stats

ADRIAN, Mich. - The Adrian College men's basketball team narrowly defeated Bluffton University 65-64 Tuesday night at the Merillat Center.

Michael Staley was a perfect 5-for-5 from the floor in the first half to lead the team with 11 points. Desmond Young added 10 points for the Bulldogs who enjoyed a 42-28 lead at halftime.

Nick Wilson hit a couple of three pointers to keep the Beavers close. Wilson ended the first half with 10 points.

Bluffton erased the 14 point halftime deficit midway through the second half. Wilson made back-to-back lay ups to pull the Beavers within three points of Adrian with a 52-49 score with 10:06 to play.

The game remained tight the rest of the way. Bluffton tied the game with 48 seconds remaining off a three pointer from Wilson.

Staley walked the ball up the floor and dribbled down the shot clock. He was able to penetrate the lane and draw a foul on Nick Lee.

Staley stepped to the line and missed the first free throw, but he was able to connect on the second to give the Bulldogs the 65-64 lead. The Beavers hurried down the floor and got the ball to Wilson who was able to get a shot off, but it was no good and the Bulldogs held on to pull out the 65-64 victory.

Staley finished the game with 23 points and seven assists. Adrian shot 65 percent (17-for-26) from the floor compared to just 46 percent (12-for-26) from Bluffton.

The Bulldogs improve their overall record to 3-4. The team will travel to Las Vegas, Nevada to play in the Hoopla Tournament from December 18-20.