SAINT PAUL, MINN.--The Hamline University men's basketball team's big second-half comeback at Augustana (Ill.) on Saturday afternoon consisted of a .619 (13-of-21) field goal percentage, and
Brendan Ebel's layup with 1:14 remaining that gave them their first lead of the contest at 57-56. The Pipers couldn't hang onto that advantage as Staishaun Kelly scored all four of the Vikings' points within the final minute, which included a layup and free throw in the final second that sealed them a 60-57 victory.
The Pipers fall to 3-3, while the Vikings improve to 4-1 on the season.
Augustana 60, Hamline 57
Augustana took control early with a strong 9-0 run, highlighted by Tyler Knuth's scoring, including a fast-break three-pointer at 16:42. Hamline responded with
Austin Holt, who contributed significantly with a series of layups that brought the score to 11-6 with 14:38 remaining in the half. Despite Holt's efforts, the Vikings maintained their lead, with Staishaun Kelley adding points in the paint and Nicolas Giliberto contributing a three-pointer to extend their advantage. By the end of the half, they led 32-20, capitalizing on Hamline's nine turnovers while securing 16 points off the bench.
The second half saw Hamline outscore Augustana 37-28. Early in the frame, Augustana's Evan Ambrose made an impact with a jumper at 19:18, although Hamline's
Austin Holt quickly responded with a steal and subsequent layup by
Bradley Cimperman. Hamline's
Brendan Ebel played a critical role, contributing defensively with a steal and scoring a fast-break layup with 1:14 left, which gave the Pipers their first lead of the game at 57-56. In the final minute, Augustana's Staishaun Kelley secured the win with four points, which included a layup and free throw in the closing moments that gave the Vikings a 60-57 victory.
Austin Holt led the Pipers with a double double 16 points, making 5-of-9 shots and 6-of-9 free throws, as well as 11 boards and three steals.
Brendan Ebel showcased his defensive prowess with three blocks and two steals, while also scoring eight points and pulling down five rebounds.
Daniel McCarrell made an impact scoring 12 points, including two 3-pointers, and three assists.
Dominic Dosmann was efficient from the field, scoring nine points on 4-of-5 shooting and five rebounds.
Staishaun Kelley led the Vikings with a strong performance, scoring 15 points on six baskets made out of ten attempts and adding two steals. Chase Larsen contributed ten points, successfully making four of his ten shots and securing five rebounds. Tyler Knuth also reached double figures, scoring ten points, highlighted by two 3-pointers and adding two steals.
Hamline finished the game with the upper hand in shooting (.477 - .381), assists (10-8), blocks (4-1), and steals (7-5).
The Pipers will open MIAC play at Macalester on Wednesday, December 4 at 5:30 p.m.
