The Pioneers took control of the game very early. Bluffton committed five turnovers in the first six minutes, to fall behind 14-4. The Beavers would battle back and cut the lead to four points with 2:40 left, but Transylvania answered back with a quick 8-0 run. Bluffton shot 36 percent in the first period which contributed to a halftime score of 33-21 in favor of the Pioneers.
The Beavers shooting dramatically improved in the second period by posting an incredible 68 percent, but it was not enough to close the gap. Bluffton would pull within three points with 4:20 remaining after a free throw by Sophomore Eric Sweet (Ottawa/Ottawa-Glandorf). Sophomore Scott Bergman (Elmore/Woodmore) made the Beavers only three-point field goal with 24 seconds left to play, but it was not enough as Transylvania was able to make free throws down the stretch for the final score of 69-63. Bluffton has made at least one three-point shot in every game dating back to the 1992-1993 season. This streak now stands at 289 games.
Leading the Beavers on the day was Senior Brad Boyles (Berne, Ind./South Adams) with 18 points. Sweet chipped in 14 points. Bergman rounded off the double figure scoring with 11 points and pulled down a game high nine rebounds. Bluffton out rebounded Transylvania 33-26 and posted 22 points in the paint compared to Transylvania’s 16.
Bluffton will travel to Cincinnati on Wednesday to take on Mount St. Joseph. Tip off is set for 7:30 pm.