KALAMAZOO, MI - The Kalamazoo College men's basketball team defeated Olivet 75-62 this afternoon. The team broke its three game losing streak and is now 6-7 overall and 1-1 in MIAA play.
The Anderson Athletic Center was rocking for this game – it was the first men's home game since winter break. A lot of loud cheering and a lap around the court by fans in speedos definitely played a part in the Hornets coming out with a ton of energy.
A combination of Josh Whitney and Adam Dykema's seven points each allowed Kalamazoo to win the first half and ultimately the game. The first half looked like it could have gotten away from the Hornets due to the stellar play of Comet guard Jake Zielinski. Zielinski hit four threes in the first half and went to the locker room with 19 points. Still, the Hornets took a 34-29 lead into the half.
In the second half the Hornets were able to hold Zielinski to just seven points on two of 10 shooting. This helped Kalamazoo pull away and keep between a six and twelve point lead for the majority of the second half. Offensive contributions came from up and down the roster. Adam Dykema finished with 16 points, five rebounds, and an assist – he was the team's leading scorer again. Adam Peters and Josh Miller combined for 18 points and nine rebounds while Josh Whitney put up 11 points and grabbed four boards.
Freshman Charlie Carson and Stephen Oliphant both had very special games off of the bench. Oliphant pulled down a team high 11 rebounds to go along with four points and an assist while Charlie Carson couldn't stop attacking the rim. Charlie Carson earned eight foul shots in just 11 minutes and hit a clutch three pointer to finish with nine points. He also helped the Hornets in the last few minutes of the game in the backcourt after Carl Ghafari fouled out.
Kalamazoo has gotten back to .500 in conference play and will look to get above .500 Wednesday, Jan. 14 at home against conference opponent Trine.