MISHAWAKA, Ind. —The No. 15 Bethel Pilots (6-0, 1-0) remain undefeated following Wednesday’s 83-68 victory over the Marian University Knights (0-6, 0-1) in the Gates Gymnasium.
The win marks the ninth consecutive year that the Pilots have claimed their conference opener.
Beau Jacquay showcased his first double-double of the season with 20 pts and 11 boards (3-8).
Colin Comer matched his previous season high of 18 pts scored (IUSB), shooting 54.5% from the field (6-11) and 50% from three (4-8).
Alonas Peciulis racked up 17 pts and one steal.
Following the first, Marian led by one lone point (38-37) before the Pilots pulled away in the second.
Bethel shot 58.1% (18-31) from the field compared to Marian’s 46.4% (13-28) in the deciding half.
Head Coach Steve Drabyn shared, “This was a typical grind it out, Crossroads League type of game. We got out to a good start, scoring eight straight possessions offensively, but then couldn’t extend the lead. Give Marian a lot of credit coming in with a great game plan and executing it.”
Drabyn continued, “Our guys played well in the first half, but didn’t perform well, only making 3-15 from three…Colin Comer and Austin Cripe provided good minutes from the guard spot. We are happy with the win and look forward to another tough Crossroads game on Saturday vs.Goshen.”
Tip-off against the Maple Leafs will take place at 3 PM in the Ruth Gunden Gymnasium.