PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Penn State Schuylkill Men's Basketball lost to NAIA opponent Michigan-Dearborn on Sunday.
The first 10:54 of the game saw a back-and-forth battle, with neither team gaining a significant edge. There were 5 ties and 7 lead changes, and no team led by more than 5 points.
After a made jump shot by Jamel Anderson (Brooklyn, NY / Cristo Rey Brooklyn High School), Michigan-Dearborn seized control with a 10-0 run, establishing their largest lead at 47-35. Schuylkill responded strongly, closing the first half on an 11-7 run to bring the deficit within 8 points.
The second half began with determination from Schuylkill. A made layup by Wilvens Fleurizard (Tamarac, FL / Coral Springs High School) and two consecutive baskets by Dashawn Dixon (Baltimore, MD / Catonsville High School) narrowed the gap to 54-52. Schuylkill later regained the lead after a made basket by Makhi Jones with 14:21 remaining.
Despite Schuylkill's efforts, Michigan-Dearborn managed to build a 12-point lead with 4:18 left. A 5-point stretch by Antwuan Byrd (Harrisburg, PA / Bishop McDevitt High School) brought Schuylkill within reach at 94-87 with 3:21 remaining. However, Michigan-Dearborn halted Schuylkill's momentum, going on a 6-0 run to close the game and secure a 100-87 victory.
Huge double-double for Dixon as he finished with 20 points and 18 rebounds. Fleurizard was highly active on the defensive end, coming up with 7 steals to go with 17 points and 7 rebounds. Byrd added 14 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists while Anderson contributed with 16 points off the bench.
Schuylkill (0-2 overall, 0-0 PSUAC) will host NCAA Division III opponent McDaniel College on Tuesday, November 14th in what will be their home opener. Women's Basketball will have their PSUAC Championship Ring Ceremony during halftime.
