Ferris State Earns Key Regional Road Win Over Lewis On Tuesday Night

Romeoville, Ill. — The Ferris State University men's basketball squad earned a key regional road win on Tuesday (Dec. 16) night as the Bulldogs came away with a narrow 66-64 victory over Lewis University at Neil Carey Arena in Romeoville.

The Bulldogs secured the win despite a tight second half, aided by a 17-point contribution from second-chance opportunities.

FSU opened the first half by gaining an early advantage. The Bulldogs capitalized on their offensive rebounds, amassing eight in total, which led to second-chance points like Chang Hoth's three-pointer at 16:05 of the opening period assisted by Bryce Moore. Despite turnovers and fouls, the Bulldogs maintained control with key plays such as Tyler Hamilton's three-point play at 9:55, tying the score at 17 apiece. Ferris State extended the lead late in the half with a three-pointer by Brandon Claerbaut at 2:41, followed by Mykel Bingham's layup at 1:50. The half concluded with the Bulldogs holding a lead of 33–25.

In the second half, Ferris State surged ahead with a crucial sequence initiated by Justin Asi's three-pointer at 13:17, which lifted the visitors to a narrow lead. This was followed by Asi's layup and free throw, pushing Ferris State to a 45-41 advantage. Despite Lewis closing the gap multiple times, Claerbaut's critical three-pointer with a minute to play restored FSU's lead, 64–63.

The decisive moment came when Hamilton sank two free throws with 14 seconds remaining, securing the victory.

Bingham scored 20 points and recorded a double-double with 10 rebounds, while also contributing two blocks and two steals. Asi added 12 points and collected eight rebounds, along with two assists and two steals. Owen Hardy contributed defensively with three steals and two blocks. Hamilton scored 11 points, converting all five of his free-throw attempts.

Arius Alijosius led the Flyers with 15 points, successfully making six-of-10 field goals and contributing two steals. Timofei Komissarov added 13 points while shooting five-of-seven from the field, also recording two steals and five rebounds. Cale Cosme chipped in with 12 points and four assists, going five-of-11 from the floor. John McCrear bolstered the defense with two steals, complementing his six points and five rebounds.

The Bulldogs, who are now 3-4 overall, will return home to host McKendree (Ill.) in their final game prior to the holiday break on Friday, Dec. 19. Tipoff for the regional home tilt is set for 6 p.m. (ET) inside Jim Wink Arena.