WINONA LAKE, Ind. -- The Madonna men's basketball program kicked off their 2023-24 season at the Lancer Tip-Off Classic where they took on the Maple Leafs of Goshen College (Ind.). The Crusaders defeated the Maple Leafs 81-61 behind 1four Crusaders scoring in double-.figures

HOW IT HAPPENED

The Crusaders were efficient to start the season opener, on their first three possessions of the game they walked away with points to take a 7-4 lead. After that, both teams tried to shake the rust off as both went scoreless for three minutes. The difference maker in the first half was the Crusaders caused 10 Maple Leaf turnovers, which led to 13 fast break points and 15 points off turnovers. Madonna headed into the locker room up 41-27 at the half.

In the second half, It was more of the same from Madonna. Brendan Young led the Crusaders with 12 in the second half and the Crusaders limited the Maple Leafs to just 37.9% from the field and 18.2% from three and because of that Madonna walked away with a 81-61 victory. 

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

• Young finished his night with 18 points, six rebounds and two assists
• Matthew MacLellan wrapped with the game with 15 points and five rebounds
• Sho-Ron Graham in his first game as a Crusader finished with 13 points on 50% shooting, while pulling down five boards 
• Isaac Anderson had a near double-double with 11 points and nine rebounds

UP NEXT

The Crusaders are back in action at the Lancer Tip-Off Classic tomorrow, Saturday October 28 at 2:00 PM when they take on No. 2 Grace College (Ind.)

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