FOND DU LAC, WI – In a physical mid-December matchup at Sadoff Gym, the Beloit College Buccaneers (4-6, 0-2 MWC) demonstrated significant resilience on the road, ultimately falling to Marian University (6-4, 3-1 NACC) with a final score of 63-51. Despite the result, Beloit's core rotation and bench depth provided several flashes of momentum that kept the Sabres on their heels for much of the evening.
The Buccaneers' offensive effort was spearheaded by the backcourt tandem of Anthony Carter (Greenfield, Wis.) and Lathan Lewis (Rockford, Ill.). Carter, who logged a team-high 38 minutes, finished with 11 points and 4 rebounds, providing a steadying veteran presence on the floor. Lewis matched Carter's 11 points and added a team-best 4 assists and 2 steals, proving to be a primary catalyst for Beloit's transition game.
In the paint, Semaj Roy (Chicago, Ill.) was a force to be reckoned with. Roy nearly secured a double-double, anchoring the defense and the glass with 9 points and a game-high 10 rebounds. His work on the boards was a key reason Beloit was able to keep the rebounding margin competitive (36-30 in favor of Beloit).
Beloit found success early, holding a lead in the first few minutes of the game following a defensive stand. While Marian managed to build a lead through the middle of the first half, Beloit refused to let the game slip away.
A major momentum shift occurred in the second half. Trailing at the break 29-23, Beloit came out with renewed defensive intensity. Around the 14:23 mark of the second half, the Buccaneers ignited a 4-0 scoring run that tightened the spread and forced Marian to adjust their defensive schemes.
Perhaps the most efficient performance of the night came from the bench in the form of Zayn Young (Milwaukee, Wis.). In just under eight minutes of action, Young provided an immediate spark, going a perfect 3-for-3 from the field to contribute 6 quick points. His efficiency served as a blueprint for the Buccaneers' offensive potential when finding rhythm in the paint.
While Beloit dominated the glass and shot a stellar 87.5% from the free-throw line, the game was ultimately decided by points off turnovers. Beloit's 18 turnovers were converted into 28 points for Marian, a margin that proved difficult to overcome on the road. Additionally, the Buccaneers struggled from beyond the arc, hitting just 2 of 17 attempts (11.8%).
With 34 of their 51 points coming from inside the paint, Beloit established a clear identity as a team that can outwork opponents near the rim.
The Buccaneers will close out 2025 on the road at Rockford University on Tuesday, December 30th. Tip off from the Seaver Center is set for 6 pm.
