Oilers Knock Off #18 Spartans
The University of Findlay men's basketball team knocked off 18th-ranked St. Thomas Aquinas by a score of 79-62 on Dec. 21 in Sparkill, N.Y. The win gives the Oilers a 6-5 record on the season.
The Oilers fell behind early and battled back before outscoring the Spartans by a 45-26 margin in the second half. Their defense fueled the run as they forced a season-best 28 turnovers, which led to a season-high 18 steals.
The Oilers ended the game by hitting 56.9 percent (29-of-51) of their shot attempts, which included a 7-of-17 (41.2%) showing from three point range. The Spartans meanwhile made 48.9 percent (23-of-47) of their field goal attempts and were 5-of-15 (33.3%) from long range.
Sophomore guard Ethan Linder led the Oilers with 14 points and four steals while junior guard Tommy Schmock had 13 points, seven assists, and five steals.
Senior forward Aaron Overhiser reached double figures with 11 points and five rebounds while senior forward Andrew Emrick came off the bench to provide 11 points on 4-of-7 shooting.
Freshman forward Nathan Bruns also provided a spark off the bench with eight points, six rebounds, three assists, two blocks, and a steal while junior forward Anthony Masterlasco and junior forward Chazz George had seven points apiece.
Osbel Caraballo led the Spartans with a game-high 20 points.
The Oilers will be back in action again on Dec. 30 when they host Judson at 7pm in Niekamp Arena.