Alma, Mich. – The Alma College Men's Basketball team faced a tough match up against Manchester University Spartans on Wednesday night at Art Smith Arena, ultimately falling 96-75. Despite several strong individual performances, Alma struggled to stick with Manchester's offense, which shot 54.8% from the field.
 
Sophomore, Korbin Heitzman, had a standout game for the Scots, scoring 16 points on an efficient 5 for 6 shooting while pulling down a team-high eight rebounds. His consistent presence on the boards and ability to convert from the field and the free-throw line (5 of 7), were helpful for the Scots. Alma shot the ball well as they were 50.9% from the floor and 40% from three-point range.
 
Freshman, Raine Rodich came off the bench to contribute 13 points, shooting 60% from the field, and added three rebounds. Preston Malpass also provided a spark with 12 points, including two from three-point range, showcasing Alma's depth off the bench. Junior, Duriel Mask Jr., made his presence felt with 10 points in 11 minutes of action, knocking down two triples to energize the Scot's offense.
 
The Scots got off to a solid start, highlighted by a three-pointer from Donovan Collins, but Manchester quickly established control with a 17-1 run after the Scots jumped out to a 4-0 lead. Alma battled back with buckets from Heitzman and Malpass to cut the deficit, but Manchester ultimately capitalized on Alma's turnovers and took a 53-39 lead going into halftime.
In the second half, the Scots fought hard to mount a comeback Heitzman continued to dominate inside, and Rodich provided a scoring burst with baskets in the paint. Alma's bench contributed 42 points overall, demonstrating the depth of the squad. Manchester's efficient shooting and 25 points off turnovers proved too much, as the Spartans maintained control of the game and secured the victory.
 
The Scots will look to regroup and get in the wins column as they prepare for their next games. Alma will be heading to Cincinnati, Ohio to participate in the Lauren Hill Tip-Off Classic. This event consists of Alma College, Albion College, Mount St. Joseph University, and Hiram College. The Scots play Hiram on Saturday, November 23 and play Mount St. Joseph on Sunday, November 24.