(RV) Saint Francis Wins Over Marian
| Final | 1 | 2 | T | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Marian University (11-15, 5-11) | 33 | 39 | 72 |
|
(RV) Saint Francis (Ind.) (17-9, 10-6) | 36 | 44 | 80 |
FORT WAYNE, Ind. - The University of Saint Francis (Ind.) men's basketball team defeated the visiting Marian University Knights by a final score of 80-72 on Saturday, February 15.
The Cougars started Saturday's matchup strong, taking an early 12-7 lead. Marian responded, tying the score at 18-18 with just over 10 minutes remaining in the first half. The two teams exchanged baskets in a back-and-forth battle, but at the 2:46 mark, USF pulled ahead with a 31-26 lead. The Cougars went into halftime leading 36-33.
Saint Francis and Marian engaged in a competitive back-and-forth during the second half, tying the score five times in the first 10 minutes. At the 7:07 mark, Luke Almodovar sank a three-pointer, giving Saint Francis a 64-58 lead. Although the Knights attempted to chip away at the Cougars' advantage, Saint Francis managed to extend their lead to double digits with a layup from Branden Northern just 53 seconds before the game ended. As time expired, Marian scored a layup, bringing the final score to 80-72. With the win, Saint Francis improved their Crossroads League record to 10-6.
The Cougars shot 59.6% (28-47) from the floor and outscored the Knights 48-26 in the paint. Isaiah Malone led USF with 24 points, nine rebounds and four assists. Joe Reidy added 15 points and seven rebounds, while Almodovar finished with 13 points and a block. Northern also scored in double digits on Saturday, totaling 12 points and four rebounds. Zane Burke dished out four assists and pulled down six rebounds.
Up next, USF men's basketball (17-9, 10-6) will travel to No. 6 Grace College on Wednesday, February 19. Grace escaped the Hutzell Athletic Center with a 72-65 win in their first matchup of the season.
Cougar fans can stay updated on all events and recaps with USF Athletics by visiting saintfranciscougars.com.
