Holland Reporter

The Grand Valley State men's basketball team secured a 71-68 victory against Malone on Saturday afternoon in Canton, Ohio. This win brings the Lakers' season record to 3-1, while Malone now stands at 3-3.

Grand Valley State University (GVSU) shot 42% from the field overall and improved to 51% in the second half. The team made eight three-pointers and provided a total of 11 assists. In comparison, Malone also shot 44% from the field and matched GVSU with eight three-pointers. GVSU outrebounded their opponents by a margin of nine, securing 39 rebounds to Malone's 30, including grabbing more offensive rebounds.

Jalen Charity led GVSU with a career-high of 15 points on five out of eight shots and collected four rebounds. Ethan Alderink contributed with 11 points on an efficient five out of six shooting performance, leading the team with eight rebounds and four assists. William Dunn and Marcus Gray II each added ten points to the scoreboard. Dunn also captured seven rebounds and was successful on five out of six free throws, while Gray II hit two three-pointers and took two rebounds.

The game commenced with multiple lead changes within the first ten minutes. After trailing by four points with seven minutes left in the first half, GVSU went on a scoring run to take a narrow lead before halftime ended with Malone ahead by one point at 34-33.

In the second half, GVSU started strong with a scoring run that gave them a slight edge over Malone at different intervals throughout the game. A critical moment came when Mason Docks scored a three-pointer during a significant run that expanded their lead to seven points late in the game. Despite Malone's efforts to close the gap in the final moments, GVSU managed to maintain their advantage for the win.

Looking ahead, GVSU will host Hillsdale for a nonconference game scheduled for Wednesday at their home arena. Fans can watch live coverage through FloSports or listen via Thunder Country radio station.