CINCINNATI, OHIO — The Mount St. Joseph University men's basketball team defeated Bluffton University on Wednesday night at the Harrington Center, 83-71.
The Mount set the tone early, scoring two quick buckets from Michael Lofits and Matthew Menninger. The Lions controlled the first half and led by 15 going into halftime, 37-22. Joe Brand was a major reason for the lead, scoring 16 first-half points, including multiple three-pointers. The Mount forced seven first-half Beaver turnovers, leading to 10 of their 37 points.
Bluffton came out strong in the second half, cutting the Lions' lead all the way down to 6. Jason Lavender responded with a three-pointer and free throws, helping the Mount regain a double-digit lead. From there, the Lions began to expand their lead, with Griffen Derry hitting three three-pointers and converting an "and-one" play to lead the Mount in the second half with 12 points. The Lions led by as many as 19 in the second half and went on to win, 83-71.
The Mount was led by Joe Brand, who scored 23 points and grabbed 8 rebounds. Cooper Ollis added 17 points and 7 rebounds, while Griffen Derry contributed 14 points.
UP NEXT: The Lions will host Manchester University on Saturday, January 24. Tipoff is scheduled for 1:00 p.m.
