The Bluffton University men’s basketball team (7-4, 1-0 HCAC) defeated No. 9 Hanover College (10-3, 1-1 HCAC) 59-55 on Jan. 8.
Bluffton is now on a four-game winning streak and broke Hanover’s 26-game Heartland Conference winning streak that they had carried over the past few years. The victory is the Beavers first over Hanover since Feb. 3, 2001, when they defeated the Panthers on the road 73-72.
Junior Scott Bergman (Elmore/Woodmore) led both teams and tied his career high with 29 points. Sophomore Michael Anthony (Ohio City/Delphos St. John’s) posted 17 points, four steals and six rebounds. Sophomore Eric Schwieterman (St. Henry/St. Henry) ended the afternoon with six rebounds and four assists.
The Panthers led the contest for most of the first half as Bluffton tied the game five times before taking the lead at the three minute mark 24-21. At halftime the Beavers held a narrow lead 26-24. Bluffton came out strong in the second half as they led until the six minute mark when Hanover’s Ben Lye hit a quick jumper to take back the game 48-46.
The Beavers would not be outdone as Bergman hit his second three-pointer in a row three minutes later (2:45 mark) to help Bluffton take back the lead for good 55-52. The final outcome would see Bluffton win their 2004 conference opener 59-55.
Bluffton University will be back in action on the road on Monday, Jan. 10, as they travel to Manchester College. Tip off for the contest is slated for 7:30 p.m.
