BLUFFTON, Ohio – The Heidelberg University men's basketball team escaped with a thrilling 65-61 win on the road at Bluffton.  With the victory, the Student Princes improved their season record to 2-1.

Both teams ended with four players scoring in double figures. Sophomore Isaiah Young continues to impress throughout this season as he led the Student Princes in scoring with 15 points, followed by Eric Panning who contributed 11 points and seven rebounds. Senior Jacob Logsdon and sophomore Jashun Cobb each contributed 10 points off the bench, proving to be extremely significant to the game. 

The Student Princes jumped out to an early 14-4 lead early in the first half. The team had a huge inside presence as they ended the half with 18 of their 35 first half points coming in the paint. Their inside presence was also felt on the defensive end as senior center Amil Jenkins had two huge blocks in the contest. 

Trailing 35-27 at halftime, the Beavers came out of the locker room with a renewed sense of urgency, as the lead was routinely trimmed down. With every Bluffton run, there was a 'Berg response -- proving the experience of the team from last year's national tournament appearance. There was no panic for any of the players, especially for senior Seth Hohman who hit a very timely pair of 3-pointers to shut down any Bluffton momentum.

However, the Beavers still stayed within striking distance late.  After a tough Panning layup through contact, Miguel Ringer came down on the other end with a huge three-point play opportunity with 8:11 remaining.

Bluffton managed to cut it to a 62-61 lead with under three minutes left. But after a few empty possessions for both sides, Heidelberg's experience proved to be too much for the hosts. Panning got a crucial steal with 51 seconds left, which forced the Beavers to foul.  Young stepped up and hit two free throws, making it a three-point lead. 

The Beavers searched for the tie, but after a great defensive possession for HU forced them into a bad shot. Panning, who had a team-high seven rebounds on the night, grabbed the board and hit two free throws to seal the deal.  

On Bluffton's side, Kegan Owen and Brady Wheeler each led the way with 12 points. Michael Stamman and Nevin Robinson each chipped in 10 points.

Heidelberg will be back in action on November 22, as they face off against the Britons of Albion College in Seiberling Gymnasium. Tip-off is slated for 6:30 p.m.


Photo courtesy of Bluffton sports information