Ferris State Men's Basketball Falls To Wayne State In Motor City Matchup

DETROIT — The Ferris State University men's basketball squad fell to Wayne State University 98-77 on Saturday at the Wayne State Fieldhouse in Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) play.

The Bulldogs hit 11 three-pointers in the game, but could not overcome the Warriors' 48 points in the paint.

Ferris State opened the first half with a strong offensive display, highlighted by Joey Cabana's early jumper at 19:19 and Brandon Claerbaut's 3-pointer at 18:50, assisted by Mykel Bingham. Despite frequent lead changes, the Bulldogs managed to keep pace with the Warriors through Bingham's contributions, including a key 3-pointer at 10:17. However, Wayne State capitalized on second-chance opportunities and held a rebounding advantage, leading to a halftime score of 53-41 against Ferris State.

The Bulldogs narrowed the gap early in the second half with a strong offensive push, highlighted by Cabana's three consecutive successful field goals, including two 3-pointers assisted by Claerbaut. This effort brought FSU within one point at 17:00, with a score of 56-55. However, Wayne State responded effectively, extending the lead through a series of points in the paint and capitalizing on the Bulldogs' turnovers. Despite Cabana's contribution of 11 bench points and Bingham's consistent play, Ferris State couldn't overcome the deficit.

Bingham led the Bulldogs with 26 points, hitting 11 of 16 from the field and three 3-pointers, while also recording three steals. Cabana contributed 17 points, connecting on 6 of 8 shots, including three from beyond the arc. Tyler Hamilton added five assists. Claerbaut posted 11 points and handed out four assists, complementing his five rebounds.

Jordan Briggs led the Warriors with 35 points, including four 3-pointers, while also contributing five assists and three steals. Carlos Paul III added 19 points, making eight field goals on 13 attempts. Jotham Nweke provided a balanced effort with 12 points and three steals, contributing to both ends of the court. Devin Belle scored 12 points and recorded a block, adding depth to the team's scoring efforts.

The loss snapped the Bulldogs' two-game winning streak and evened FSU's league mark to 1-1 overall following the first conference road trip of the year.

Ferris State will next be in action with a regional road contest on Tuesday, Dec. 16, at Lewis (Ill.) starting at 8 p.m. (ET) in Romeoville, Ill.