The Blackhawks ran out of possessions against Columbus and had some chances at the end to tie and win the game but came up short losing 66-64.
It was a game of runs throughout the night with both teams hitting key shots and making plays throughout the game. Talon Mueller scored four quick points to get the Hawks started, then Jack Wendler set the tone inside with a hoop. After a Winston Poehler three, the Hawks lead 13-9. Three straight drives with scores, one by Preston Fritz and two by Clay Mueller along with the harm, making it a three-point play put the lead to 21-12. The Dons used their outside shooting to cut into the lead. Poehler hit a pair of jumpers to keep the lead at 29-26 at the half.
The battle continued into the second half. Fritz scored three points early with Poehler earning a putback hoop underneath and then a deep three made it 36-34. Isaiah Pyrchalla would then connect from deep for the Blackhawks followed by a pair of Clay Mueller free throws. Many lead changes would take place. Key baskets down the stretch by Poehler, Wendler and Fritz gave the Hawks a chance along with some nice steals, but it wasn't in the cards for the Blackhawks as they fell 66-64.
The Hawks shot 54% from two-point range, 26% from three and 65% from the free throw line.
Box Score: Poehler 21 pts, 11 rebs, 3 asts, 2 stls; Fritz 16 pts, 4 rebs, 3 asts, 2 stls; Clay Mueller 13 pts, 3 rebs, 2 asts; Wendler 5 pts, 7 rebs, 2 asts; Pyrchalla 5 pts, 2 rebs; T. Mueller 4 pts, 4 rebs, 2 asts; Paczkowski 2 rebs, 2 asts.
Coach's Comments
We executed all night and gave a great effort all the way to the horn. I am proud that we were focused on both ends and communicated that well. The guys always believe and show great trust in each other.