The DePauw Men’s Basketball team was able to overcome their seven game losing streak with a 64-53 victory over Oberlin College this past Saturday.
The Tigers (7-12) started off the game slowly, falling to a 5-0 deficit within the first minute and a half of play. However, they fought back shortly after, maintaining a lead that they would keep for the rest of the match.
Although the first half was kept close by Oberlin’s persistent efforts, the Yeomen ultimately couldn’t keep up. The Yeomen trailed the Tigers 31-20 as the first half came to a close.
DePauw’s dominance continued into the second half, as they increased their lead by 17 points within the first 6 minutes of the half.
Down but not out, Oberlin attempted to surge back into contention with just over a minute and half left of play. The Tigers’ lead had diminished to a mere 6 points before they eventually regrouped and put together a commanding finish.
The Tigers led by as many as 19 points during the game.
Strong performances for DePauw came from junior guard Luke Lattner, sophomore Jack VandeMerkt, and sophomore Cris Burrough. Lattner led the team with 15 points, while VandeMerkt and Burrough contributed 14 points and 10 points, respectively.
This was a much-needed win for the Tigers.
“Anytime you can get a win and stop a seven game losing streak is nice,” said Lattner.
DePauw currently sits with a record of 7-12, placing them 9th in the North Coast Atlantic Conference rankings. Allegheny College (2-17) is the only team that sits below them in the current NCAC standings.
The men resume play with two home games this weekend. Tonight the Tigers face off against Allegheny, following up with a game against Hiram (13-6) on Saturday.
Tipoff is scheduled for 6 p.m. tonight at Neal Fieldhouse.