Big Performance Lifts Ferris State Past SVSU In GLIAC Home Encounter

Postgame Interview 

Big Rapids, Mich. - The Ferris State University men's basketball team remains the only unbeaten team in Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) play after weekend action as FSU posted a 88-84 home win over visiting Saginaw Valley State in league play on Saturday (Jan. 8) at Jim Wink Arena.

The Bulldogs trailed by six points in the opening half before grabbing a 40-35 lead at halftime in the GLIAC encounter. The lead grew to as many as 12 points with 15:20 to go, but SVSU responded and held a late lead before the Bulldogs surged back in front and held on for the win.

FSU got 24 points from graduate transfer Lee Higgins, who finished shooting eight-of-10 from the floor while making four-of-six three's.

Meanwhile, senior forward Dorian Aluyi totaled 18 points and a game-high 13 rebounds for Ferris State with senior guard Walt Kelser notching 17 points.

The Bulldogs shot 52% from the floor and made 11-of-25 (44%) three's in addition to 13-of-18 (72.2%) free throws.

Saginaw Valley State fought hard and was led by Darnell Hoskins, Jr., with 24 points. James Toohey added 14 points and Delano Smith compiled 10 points for SVSU, which fell to 9-5 overall and 3-3 in conference play.

The Bulldogs held SVSU to 41% shooting with the Cardinals making 10-of-23 (43.5%) three's and 20-of-27 (74.1%) free throws.

The Bulldogs improved to 10-3 overall and stayed perfect in the GLIAC with a 5-0 conference record following the win.

Ferris State will host Wayne State in a rescheduled GLIAC contest on Monday, Jan. 10, with tipoff set for 5:30 p.m. (ET) inside Wink Arena.