The combination of stingy defense by the Scots and cold shooting by the Thunder led to Alma jumping out to an early lead and going into the locker room at the half leading 51-35. Tri-State attempted 30 three-point field goals before the half, making seven, while the Scots shot a cool 48 percent from the field.
However, the Thunder came out of the half ready to turn things around as their full court pressure gave Alma fits for the final 20 minutes of the game and turned the match into a sea-saw battle that wasn’t determined until Tri-State missed their final shot at the buzzer. Despite turning the ball over 36 times against the Thunder pressure, the Scots were able to maintain their composure and pull out their second-straight conference win of the 2004-05 season.
Alma’s shot selection was a key to victory as they were able to convert on 50 percent of their field goals. Leading the way for the Scots was sophomore Anthony Jones who filled up the box score going for 30 points, nine rebounds, and six assists. Freshman Mark Barnes grabbed 13 rebounds and scored 14 points in 32 minutes of play. Carl Hill scored 12 points and grabbed eight boards for the Scots. Sophomomre James Barnhart added 10 points and nine rebounds in the win.
In other league play, Albion defeated Calvin by the score of 68-65. Kalamazoo was victorious against Olivet 84-52, and Adrian pulled out a close game against Hope, winning 79-77. The Scots sit atop the conference standings with Albion as the only undefeated teams in MIAA men’s basketball action.
Alma returns to action Jan. 12 when the Scots host Olivet College at 7:30 p.m.