HOUGHTON, NY – A strong second half propelled the Houghton Highlanders past the visiting Redeemer University College Royals (Canada) in Saturday's exhibition matchup, 85-77.
 
Jake Verschoyle scored 15 of his team-high 22 points over the final 20 minutes, as the Highlanders stretched a two-point halftime lead into an eight-point victory.
 
Houghton led by as many as 16 points near the midway point of the second half, but the Royals eventually pulled back to within six with just over three minutes to play. 
 
Following a Houghton turnover, Donovan Loudermill grabbed a Royals' miss and heaved a long outlet to Verschoyle, whose emphatic dunk brought the crowd to its feet.
 
While Redeemer would again pull to within six points with 24 seconds left on the clock, Loudermill and Lou Bellamy sealed the game for the Highlanders at the free throw line.
 
GAME VITALS
Score: Houghton – 85 |  Redeemer – 77 (Exhibition) 
Records: Houghton: 1-5 |Redeemer: 2-7
Venue: Dix Family Court, The Nielsen Center, Houghton University| Attendance: 103

NOTABLE STATS
>> While Redeemer hit 48% (11-for-23) of their shots from beyond the arc, they shot only 35% (6-for-17) from the line, and committed 18 turnovers.  Houghton gave the ball away only 11 times, shot 72% (23-for-32) from the line, and 40% (10-for-25) from long range.
 
>> While the stats will not count officially, Verschoyle topped 20 points for the second time this season, matching his season-high from the Buffalo State game on November 22.  He also collected six rebounds and four assists.
 
>> Lou Bellamy chipped in 18 points and seven rebounds, while Donovan Loudermill added 17 points and four assists.
 
>> Thomaz Barbosa posted 25 points and six assists for the Royals, while Gabriel Della Foresta added 21 points and six rebounds.
 
COACH'S CORNER
"We made progress today in a couple of key areas. We protected the ball better and competed on the boards.

"Most of all, we closed out a game after having a double-digit lead. That's a big step for any young team. Jake Verschoyle and Zach Sission hit some big shots.
 
"This was Jake Verschoyle's most efficient night. I thought he made a lot of great choices. When he's driving effectively,  shooting it well, and finding open teammates, he is very difficult to guard.
 
"Lou Bellamy and Donovan Loudermill each carried us offensively in spurts. It's nice to have guys that can create buckets when you need them and are willing passers when help comes." - Head Coach Jeremy Bialek

UP NEXT
The Highlanders return to the Nielsen Center on Tuesday, December 9 when they will host the Grove City Wolverines at 7:00 p.m.