Men’s basketball team falls to Franklin, 77-53, in season-opener

The Olivet College men's basketball team fell to Franklin (Ind.) College, 77-53, tonight in its season-opener at the Spurlock Center in Franklin, Ind.

The Grizzlies (1-0) scored the first nine points of the game and never looked back, stretching their lead to as many as 25 points in the first half. The Comets (0-1) closed to within 16 points before trailing by a 43-22 score at halftime. In the second half, Franklin extended its lead to 31 points with 3:47 left on the clock.

Sophomore Lamar Johnson (Taylor/Truman) and junior Brandon McClary (Bellaire) each scored eight points to lead Olivet. Johnson canned eight-of-10 free throws for his points, while McClary made three baskets and two free throws for his eight points. Freshman Michael McClary (Bellaire) finished with a team-high seven rebounds. Senior Jeff Cooper (Dowagiac) dished out four assists.

The Comets return to action tomorrow when they host Andrews University for their home-opener. Tip-off from the Upton Center in Olivet is 7:30 p.m.