The Bluffton University men’s basketball team (7-5, 1-1 HCAC) was defeated 63-61 by Manchester College (7-6, 1-1 HCAC) on Jan. 10.
Leading the way for Bluffton was junior Eric Sweet (Ottawa/Ottawa-Glandorf) who posted a career-high 20 points. Sweet also had four rebounds, two assists and two steals in the game. Junior Scott Bergman (Elmore/Woodmore) connected on 14 points, nine rebounds (team high), three assists and two steals. Sophomore Michael Anthony (Ohio City/Delphos St. John’s) ended the double digit scoring with 14 points.
The contest was extremely close as the teams exchanged the lead several times in the first half. The Beavers held Manchester’s lead to around seven for much of the first period until late in the half when the Spartans began to dominate on the boards. At halftime Manchester led the game 37-27. The second period found the Beavers with a renewed strength as they pushed the Spartan lead to one (48-47) with 12 minutes remaining. Bluffton would then lead the game (61-60) with 41 seconds left as Scott Bergman connected on two free throws. The Spartans answered right back as Jamaal Wade hit the game-winning three pointer. Manchester would take the contest 63-61.
The Beavers shot 43 percent (23-of-53) for the contest to Manchester’s 44 percent (24-of-54). Manchester led on the boards with 35 rebounds compared to Bluffton’s 25.
Bluffton University will be back on the road on Jan. 12 when they visit Franklin College. Tip off for the HCAC contest is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
