By Ethan Stearns, sports information assistant
Women's Basketball
FRANKLIN, Ind.--The Bluffton University women's basketball team improved to 14-8 to go along with a 9-7 mark in the Heartland Conference after an exciting road victory against Franklin College on Saturday, Feb 11, 2023. Franklin fell to 8-14 overall and 7-10 in the HCAC. Bluffton's sweep of the Grizzlies ensures the Beavers of a berth in the upcoming HCAC Tournament that kicks off on Tuesday, Feb. 21.
The Beavers shot well from the field, going 24-of-53 (45.3 percent) as well as 5-for-15 from three-point territory. Franklin was 19-of-61 (31.1 percent) from the field and a paltry 5-of-33 (15.2 percent) from deep. Bluffton dominated the paint, grabbing 40 caroms, compared to Franklin's 28. The Beavers outscored their opponent by eight in the paint, 30-22.
The Bluffton women bring it home for Senior Night when they welcome Manchester for a rare Tuesday night of conference basketball on Feb. 14. Tip-off is slated for 7:30 with senior recognitions to take place at 7:15 p.m.
Men's Basketball
FRANKLIN, Ind. - The Bluffton University men's basketball team lost a road conference matchup with the Franklin College Grizzlies on Saturday, Feb. 11, 2023. The men fell to 5-18 overall and 3-13 in the conference. Franklin improved to 13-10 and 9-7 in the HCAC.
The visitors hit 21-of-50 (42 percent) from the field, compared to Franklin's 19-for-52 (36.5 percent). The Beavers were feeling it from deep, going 5-of-12 (41.7 percent) while Franklin converted 8-of-23 (34.8 percent). Bluffton also won the battle on the boards, 34-27.
Bluffton will board the bus again on Tuesday, Feb. 14, when the Beavers head west to Manchester University for game two of the season-ending three-game road swing. Tip-off is slated for 7:30 p.m.
