CANTON, Ohio. — The Malone University men's basketball team (6-4, 1-3 G-MAC) defeated Hillsdale College (7-2, 3-1 G-MAC) on Saturday afternoon, December 16 in Osborne Hall.

After seeing late leads slip away in their first three G-MAC contests of the season, the Pioneers were strong down the stretch and held on to claim their first conference win of the season, beating the Chargers 61-55. The hosts were the better team from the tip and took advantage of a slow start by a strong Hillsdale team, holding the Chargers to just 29% shooting from the field in the first half.

The Pioneers led 27-20 at the half but the inevitable second half charge from Hillsdale came when they overcame a 12-point deficit to pull within 57-53 with under a minute left. The Pioneers went to the charity stripe four times in the final minute and it was Malone's 18 of 19 (94.7%) free throw shooting on the day that earned the win.

The Pioneers shot 43.2% (19-44) on field goals and out-rebounded the Chargers 27-25. Head Coach Charlie Wallrapp trusted his bench and they responded by scoring 25 points to help the hosts to victory.

Inside the Box Score

Simon Blair led the way for the Pioneers as he scored 14 points and added three assists on the day.

Biggz Johnson was indeed big off the bench as he contributed with 11 points in his 12 minutes of action.

Caleb Conard scored seven points and grabbed three rebounds.

Carter Piatt chipped in with six points, four rebounds, and three assists in 38 minutes of energetic play.

Fraser LaRocque had six points, five boards, and a huge block.

What's Next

The Pioneers are back home again on Monday, December 18 as they play host to West Virginia Wesleyan College. Tip-off for the non-conference game is set for 3:00 p.m.

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