Men’s basketball posts 16-point victory over Anderson

DEFIANCE, Ohio – At home on Saturday night, the Defiance College men's basketball team posted an 87-71 victory over the Anderson University Ravens at the Karl H. Weaner Community Center. Defiance's win avenges a 78-74 loss to the Ravens in Anderson, Indiana, last night.

"I thought we kept them off-balance a little bit playing man and zone," Defiance head coach Scott Cutter said. "I think our guys stepped up, took the challenge and were pretty consistent throughout."

The contest was tight early on before the Yellow Jackets overcame a 26-25 deficit by going on a 19-2 run for a 44-28 lead. DC held a 44-31 advantage at halftime before Anderson pulled to within four points, 59-55, with just under 12 minutes remaining. Defiance responded by stretching the lead to 87-65, its biggest of the evening, at the 1:17 mark in cruising to the win.

From the floor, the Yellow Jackets made 56.1 percent (32 of 57), including 46.2 (6 of 13) from three-point territory, both season highs. The Ravens were 27 of 53 (50.9 percent) from the field and 8 of 20 (40.0) on three-pointers. The hosts outscored AU, 17-9, at the free throw line and finished with a 30-28 edge in rebounds. DC was guilty of only 11 turnovers to the guests' 18.

For the winners, Marell Jordan led all scorers with 23 points and also came up with a game-high four steals. Freshman Dan Luers tossed in 21 points and Tyler Andrew a season-best 17. Chase Glock recorded a double-double with a season-high 13 points and game-best 10 boards.

"If you're going to win a game, your playmakers have to make plays," Cutter said. "I thought our five starters and a couple of guys who came off the bench made some big plays. I'm proud of the guys and very happy for them."

Defiance is 1-5 overall while Anderson moves to 4-2. The Jackets are scheduled to host Manchester University next Friday at 7 p.m., but no spectators are allowed to attend at this time.