Holland Reporter

The Grand Valley State men's basketball team commenced their GLIAC schedule with an 81-68 victory against Saginaw Valley State on Thursday night. This result improves the Lakers' record to 5-2 overall and 3-0 on the road.

Under head coach Cornell Mann, GVSU is now 2-1 in GLIAC openers. The Lakers shot 47% from the field, with a notable increase to 66% in the second half. They also outrebounded the Cardinals significantly, with a margin of 52-33, including 16 offensive rebounds.

William Dunn was instrumental for GVSU, leading with 22 points and nine rebounds. Dunn's performance included shooting 9-15 from the field and scoring over 20 points for two consecutive games. Kaden Brown contributed 18 points on efficient shooting and secured a season-high five rebounds off the bench.

Mason Docks added to the effort with 13 points and led the team with four assists. He also achieved a career-high eight rebounds, including three offensive boards. Jalen Charity played a crucial defensive role, grabbing five rebounds and making two blocks along with two steals.

SVSU initially took control in the first half, maintaining their lead until late in the period when William Dunn scored to give GVSU its first lead at halftime. SVSU tied it early in the second half before GVSU responded decisively with runs that built their lead further.

The game saw pivotal moments such as Mason Docks extending GVSU's advantage to seven points with a three-pointer midway through the second half. Shamus Thompson's dunk later helped push their lead into double figures.

GVSU maintained this advantage throughout the remainder of the game, securing a comfortable win by keeping their lead above ten points for much of the final six minutes.

The Lakers will continue their GLIAC play on Saturday against Wayne State in Detroit at 3:00 PM. The game will be available live via FloSports streaming and Thunder Country radio at frequency 107.3.