By: Takayla Gadberry, sports information assistant

FRANKLIN, Ind. - The Bluffton University men's basketball team traveled to Franklin College for a Saturday afternoon matchup on December 7, 2019.

The start of the game was tight with the score notched at 10-10 thanks to a Jameel Cosby (Springfield/Kenton Ridge) triple and an Aaron Rich (Greenville) bucket in the paint. Andrew Renner (Cairo/Bath) put up a three to give the Beavers a 13-10 lead just over five minutes in. The Beaver offense struggled to keep it going as the Grizzlies would go on a 20-4 run, opening a 30-17 lead with 6:02 left in the first. Dezman Brown (Elyria) and AJ Kenney (Marion/River Valley) both hit deuces, but it wasn't enough as Franklin would lead 42-29 going into the half.

Renner hit two shots along with a pair of free throws and Cosby netted two layups to pull the Beavers within five (46-41) early in the second half. Despite what looked like a potential comeback in the making, a 20-8 Franklin spurt allowed the home team to push its lead to 13 and secure the 65-52 victory.

Cosby was the offensive beacon for the Beavers with 17 points. Renner and Rich tallied 14 and seven markers, respectively. Isaiah Taylor (Yellow Springs) and Rich pulled down five boards apiece.

The Beavers struggled offensively as they were connected on 22-of-57 (38.6 percent) from the field, including just 2-of-17 (11.8 percent) from the arc. Franklin knocked down 26-of-58 (44.8 percent) and 8-of-14 (57.1 percent) from deep. Bluffton netted 6-of-10 (60 percent) freebies with Franklin hitting 5-of-7 (71.4 percent). The Beavers forced one more turnover (14-13) but picked up six fewer boards (38-32).

The men will have a week off for final exams before they return to action on Saturday, Dec. 14, when they welcome Rose-Hulman to the Sommer Center. Tip-off is slated for 3 p.m. following the women's game at 1 p.m. Come out and support your Beavers!

-BEAVERS-