By: Ashley Birchmeier
MARIETTA — Sophomore Konnor Baker scores a team-high 14 as men's basketball falls to Marietta 74-65 Saturday afternoon at the Ban Johnson Arena to close out the regular season.
Ohio Northern finishes the regular season 12-13, 7-11 ohio athletic conference, while Marietta finishes 23-2, 16-2.
The Polar Bears opened the contest strong as senior Isaiah Roux was able to lead an early 7-0 run that resulted in a 12-7 lead with just over 15 minutes remaining in the first half.
Marietta's Raneal Ewing, responded as he netted eight straight points to put the Pioneers on top 21-17 with 8:10 to play until half.
A layup by Baker finished the half as ONU was able to pull back within 31-28.
Ohio Northern out scored Marietta 9-4 in the final five minutes of the half.
Senior Lucas Pennington dominated the second half early as the two teams exchanged points for several minutes before a layup and free throw from the senior but the Polar Bears on top 37-34.
Baker proved clutch once again as he was able to find a layup and knot the score at 50 with 10 minutes remaining in regulation.
Following a Marietta three point play, sophomore Devon Allen hit a three to once again tie the score at 55.
The Pioneers proved to much to handle as they responded with an 11-0 run, led by Ewing, in route to its 74-65 victory.
Roux chipped in 12 for Ohio Northern and freshman Travis Feitshans added 10.
Ohio Northern shot an impressive 92.3% (12-13) from the foul line, while Marietta was just 68.2% (15-22).
The Polar Bears are next in action Tuesday as they travel to Mount Union to take on the Purple Raiders in the OAC Tournament quarterfinals, tip off is set for 7:30pm.