Cincinnati, Ohio – The Alma College Men's Basketball Team faced a tough matchup against Hiram College on Saturday evening, ultimately falling 78-56 in a neutral-site game. Despite a competitive start, Alma struggled to maintain momentum, as Hiram capitalized on turnovers and second-chance opportunities to secure the victory.
 
Alma College came out with energy, exchanging leads with Hiram multiple times in the opening minutes. Freshman, Noah Cutler, provided an early spark, scoring a joint game-high 10 points while adding four assists and three steals. Korbin Heitzman contributed a solid presence in the paint, grabbing seven rebounds and adding 9 points. A trio of first half three-pointers from Cutler, Heitzman, and Josh Elliot helped Alma stay within striking distance, but turnovers and Hiram's sharp shooting began to shift the momentum. The Scots trailed 37-26 at halftime, as Hiram's offense gained rhythm, outscoring Alma in fast-break opportunities and points off turnovers.
 
The Scots fought valiantly to cut into the deficit in the second half, with Josh Elliott and Preston Malpass combining for 17 points off the bench. Elliott's perimeter shooting provided a boost, while Malpass added defensive grit with a block and four rebounds. However, Alma's struggles from beyond the arc (6-of-28, 21.4%) and at the free-throw line (6-of-10, 60%) limited their ability to mount a comeback. Hiram, shooting 47.5% from the field and dominating in the paint with 44 points, gradually extended their lead throughout the half.
 
The Scots will look to regroup as they continue their non-conference schedule at the Lauren Hill Tip-Off Classic. Alma will be playing Mount St. Joseph University on Sunday, November 24, 2024 at 2:00 pm.