KALAMAZOO, Mich. – On an afternoon dedicated to the Kalamazoo College men's basketball seniors, the Hornets honored their seniors in style by defeating the visiting Calvin College Knights, 68-53.
Kalamazoo took control of the game early never trailing after taking a 5-4 lead with 15:31 remaining in the first half.
The Hornets' lead steadily grew throughout the first half as Josh Whitney provided a strong performance on both ends of the floor. Whitney ended the half with nine points and four rebounds as Kalamazoo led 29-17 at the intermission.
The Hornets continued to take it to the Knights as a Mike Ruwoldt three extended the Kalamazoo lead to 17 with 10:32 remaining, notably its largest lead of the game.
Kalamazoo's defense stymied Calvin's efforts on the offensive end throughout, as the Knights were held to just 28.6 percent shooting and 2-of-24 shooting from downtown.
The Hornets ended the game shooting 43.5 percent and 35 percent from three points range.
A balanced offensive effort led the Hornets to victory as four different Hornets ended the evening in double figures. Chase Baysdell led the way with 16 points, five rebounds and three assists.
Tommy Cerven scored 14 off the bench while Josh Whitney and Mike Oravetz scored 12 and 11, respectively.
Cam Schwartz and Whitney each recorded a team-high eight rebounds.
Kalamazoo rides its two-game winning streak into a midweek showdown with No. 7 Hope on Wednesday. Game time is set for 8 p.m. following the women's basketball game.