Tech MBB loses close game to GVSU
Courtesy of MTU Athletics
ALLENDALE, Mich. – Senior Ali Haidar scored 25 and sophomore Ben Stelzer added 21 for Michigan Tech but it was not enough as Grand Valley came away with a 70-65 win Saturday (Jan. 12). The Huskies fall to 10-4 overall and 7-3 in the league.
“We played a hell of a game today,” said head coach Kevin Luke. “Today was the best we looked all year. Our guys gave a great effort today.”
Stelzer jump started the Tech offensive draining back-to-back 3-pointers to open the contest, but the Lakers would slowly turn the tide over the course of the half. Following a 3-pointer by Stelzer at 9:39, Grand Valley would close the half on a 24-7 run to lead 38-26 at halftime.
The Huskies would close within three with 2:19 remaining in the second half following four straight points by Ali Haidar.
Tech’s comeback was stalled by turnovers on its next two turnovers before falling by five, 70-65.
Stelzer finished with 21 points coming from seven 3-pointers. He added four rebounds, two assists and one steal.
Haidar scored 25 points shooting 9-of-16 from the field and 7-of-8 from the free throw line. He grabbed six rebounds and three assists.
Junior Austin Armga chipped in 10 points for the Black and Gold.
Breland Hogan led the Lakers with 16 points and Kristers Zeidaks added 13.
The stats were nearly even between the two teams. Grand Valley finished with a 24-20 advantage in rebounds, but Tech finished with an edge in assists 16-11.
Bench points finished 35-9 in advantage of GVSU.
Tech hosts Wayne State Thursday (Jan. 17).