KALAMAZOO, Mich. - The Alma College Men's Basketball team secured their first victory of the season with a strong 70-57 win over the Kalamazoo Hornets at Anderson Athletic Center. This win broke the season-long drought and provided a momentum boost to the season. 

The Scots found themselves in an early battle as Kalamazoo took a 5-0 lead, but Alma quickly responded with a layup from Paul Gadde and a three-pointer from Josh Elliott to even the score. The first half remained a struggle, with both teams struggling to find any rhythm. Alma's strong defense held the Hornets to 31% from the field and kept the game close going into halftime. 

Trailing 27-24 at halftime, Alma turned up the intensity in the second half, outscoring Kalamazoo 46-30. After the break, Alma wasted no time taking control. A quick 8-2 run sparked by Donovan Collins and Paul Gadde gave the Scots the lead. They never looked back, steadily increasing their advantage as the half aged. With under eight minutes remaining, back-to-back baskets by Elliott and Jeremy Rosario extended Alma's lead to double digits. At the 5:37 mark, the Scots would go on a 14-0 run backed by steals and three pointers, effectively putting the game out of reach for the Hornets. 

The Scots shot an impressive 53.3% (16 for 30) from the field in the second half, including 40% (4 for 10) from beyond the arc. They also dominated the glass, having a positive rebound advantage of 8. Defensively, the Scots clamped down on Kalamazoo's shooters, holding them to just 31.8% shooting for the game and 19.2% from three-point range. Alma would capitalize on defensive pressure with 12 steals leading to 21 points off turnovers during the game. . Their stellar defense closed out the game, allowing 0 field goals made by Kalamazoo from the field for a 5-minute stretch (6:12 to 1:24).

Elliott paced Alma's offense, scoring a team-high 14 points while adding two steals. Collins provided a much-needed deep threat, knocking down three three-pointers en route to 13 points. Gadde anchored the interior with a 13-rebound performance, along with nine points, two assists, and one block.

Rosario contributed with eight points and eight rebounds, while Logan St. Martin added five points and six boards. Raine Rodich made a strong impact off the bench, chipping in eight points and two rebounds. Korbin Heitzman and Aidan Judsen also provided valuable contributions, combining for nine points.

With the win, Alma gains momentum heading into the final stretch of the season. The Scots will look to build on their success and continuous stretch of hot shooting as they prepare for their next matchup, aiming to finish strong in conference play. Alma will host Hope College on Saturday, February 15^th. Tipoff is scheduled for 3:00 PM and this game is Senior Day and the Be Like Tye Game.