HAMBURG, NY – Ari Jones scored 28 points to help the Hilbert Hawks overcome a six-point halftime deficit to defeat the Houghton Highlanders, 75-69. 
 
Jake Verschoyle converted a layup with one minute left before the half to put the Highlanders up, 39-33.  That lead would quickly fade in the second half, as the Hawks pulled ahead in the opening minutes.
 
For over 10 minutes the Highlanders stayed within striking distance, as Hilbert never lead by more than four points over that stretch.
 
But with the game tied, 60-60, with eight minutes remaining, a layup by Jones kick-started an 11-2 Hilbert run, from which the Highlanders would not recover.
 
GAME VITALS
Score: Houghton – 69 | Hilbert – 75
Records: Houghton: 1-3 |Hilbert: 4-1
Venue: Brad Hafner Recreation Center | Attendance: 254

NOTABLE STATS
>> The greatest statistical disparity was that the Hawks outrebounded the Highlanders, 40-to-28, including 16-to-9 on the offensive boards.
 
>> Tyson Clark set a new career-best with 17 points, going 7-for-10 from the field, while Donovan Loudermill shot 6-for-11 for 14 points. 
 
>> Jones converted 11-of-13 shots, including 4-of-5 from long-distance.  He also pulled down seven rebounds.
 
COACH'S CORNER
"That felt like one that got away, but we knew Hilbert has been a great second half team this year.

"I thought our half-court defense was the best it's been so far this season, yet we are not closing out possessions with rebounds, and we gave away too many points on turnovers or just not having urgency in transition. We cannot afford to give free points like that against good teams.
 
"Our young guys continue to show why we're excited about the future of Houghton hoops. Tyson Clark was really efficient tonight and made some crucial buckets when we needed them. Donovan Loudermill continues to play older than his years and defends top guards well." - Coach Jeremy Bialek
 
UP NEXT
The Highlanders return to the Nielsen Center on Saturday, when they will host the Buffalo State Bengals at 1:00 p.m.  Houghton clipped Buffalo State last season, in Buffalo, 83-81.