Bluffton falls at Franklin in overtime
By Ben Risinger, sports information director
January 12, 2005
The Bluffton University men’s basketball team (7-6, 1-2 HCAC) was defeated 86-71 by Franklin College (10-4, 2-1 HCAC) in overtime on Jan. 12.
The first half of the game went primarily in Franklin’s direction as they owned an 11 point lead at the half, 42-31. The Beavers then found themselves down by 17 points with twelve minutes left in the ball game only to jump start a comeback that would give them the lead 69-65 with 25 seconds left (two Michael Anthony free throws). Franklin came right back to score with 18 seconds left to pull within two, 69-67. Five seconds later Scott Bergman found himself at the free throw line only to miss both shots and give the Grizzlies one last chance. Franklin’s Alan Davidson hit a quick jumper with five seconds left to tie the game at 69 all to send it into overtime.
The Grizzlies capitalized in overtime as they went on a 13-0 run in the first four minutes. Bluffton’s only two points in the overtime period came from two Bergman free throws. The final at the buzzer was Franklin 86, Bluffton 71.
Junior Scott Bergman (Elmore/Woodmore) led all scorers in the contest with 27 points. Sophomore Michael Anthony (Ohio City/Delphos St. John’s) threw in 16 points and seven rebounds. Junior Eric Sweet (Ottawa/Ottawa-Glandorf) posted his second career double-double with 15 points, 10 rebounds and five blocks for the game.
Bluffton University will be back at home this Saturday, Jan. 15. The Beavers will face HCAC foe Transylvania University for a 3 p.m. start time.
