BELOIT, Wis. - Beloit College earned a hard-fought 66-62 victory over Carroll University at Flood Arena, improving their record to 5-6 (1-2 MWC) on the season. The Buccaneers were led by
Anthony Carter (Greenfield, Wis.) and
Azeez Ganiyu (Beloit, Wis.), who scored 24 and 17 points respectively. Carter had an especially efficient game, going 7-18 from the field and 7-9 from the free throw line, including some crucial free throws down the stretch. The Pioneers (4-8, 0-3 CCIW) shot lights out from deep, going 10-for-27.
Beloit built a 33-28 lead by halftime and managed to hold off several Pioneer comeback attempts in the second half. The game remained tight throughout, featuring 7 lead changes and 5 ties. While Carroll managed to take a brief lead in the second half, Beloit's defense and timely scoring proved to be the difference.
Ganiyu had a strong all-around game, adding 8 rebounds and 3 blocks to his 17 points.
Clayton Jenny (Edgerton, Wis.) and
Ryan Nixon (Waukesha, Wis.) provided valuable contributions. Off the bench, Nixon posted a team-high +21 plus/minus rating in his 25 minutes of play and both dished out three assists.
The Buccaneers won despite shooting just 36.5% from the field, making up for it by dominating points in the paint (28-20) and converting 14 free throws compared to the Pioneer's 8. The Bucs bench played a crucial role in maintaining their lead, particularly during key stretches in both halves.
The Buccaneers return to MWC play on January 4th when they visit Ripon. Tip off from Weiske Gymnasium is set for 3 pm.