University of Montana Western Press Release
DILLON, Mont. – The Montana Western men's basketball team (10-5) improved to 2-0 in conference play, defeating Carroll College (5-10), 78-69 this evening.
"I'm really proud of our guys for sticking together after the slow start," said Head Coach Patrick Jensen. "We got some big defensive stops, and the offensive rebounds were so pivotal for us tonight."
Kyle Gruhler led the way for the Bulldogs scoring a career high 32 points on 13-16 shooting from the field.
How It Happened
It was a cold shooting start for the Bulldogs, who went 3-for-10 seven minutes into the game. Carroll, fueled by 60% shooting from the field, raced out to a 20-6 lead.
Led by Gruhler, Abi Adedo, and Jacksen Burckley, UMW responded with a 9-0 run to cut the Carroll lead to 23-20.
Kevin Bethel and Alan Kane each hit three-point baskets, and two free throws from Gruhler gave the Bulldogs a 34-33 lead at halftime.
The second half began with four lead changes as both teams exchanged baskets. Behind seven straight points from Gruhler, UMW put together a 12-0 run to take a 50-40 lead.
After a Carroll timeout, the Saints quickly answered with a 10-0 run to tie the game. A basket by Adedo halted the Saints' momentum.
A steal by Kolter Merritt set up a three-point basket from Gruhler, sparking a seven-point run for the Bulldogs. From there, UMW never looked back, securing the victory.
Notables
Adedo scored 16 points on 8-11 shooting while collecting eight rebounds.
Merritt collected seven rebounds and added four assists.
Jalyn Stepney added seven points and pulled down four rebounds.
After the cold start the Bulldogs finished the game shooting 50% from the field.
UMW out rebounded Carroll 38-26.
Up Next
The Bulldogs will remain at home as they host University of Providence this Saturday, January 11 for a 4 p.m. tip-off.
Comments