Late run by John Carroll sends Marietta to 111-101 loss

Jan. 22 2005
MARIETTA , Ohio - Marietta's new style of basketball once again kept the Pioneers in the game against one of the top teams in the nation, but a late run from No. 6 John Carroll allowed the Blue Streaks to escape with a 111-101 victory over Marietta Saturday (Jan. 22) on Fenton Court.

The Pioneers (2-15, 0-10 OAC) found themselves trailing 11-0 right out of the gate, after they went 0-of-9 from the floor and committed eight turnovers in the first six minutes. John Carroll (15-1, 9-1 OAC) increased its lead to as many as 17 points in the first half and entered intermission ahead 51-40.

Marietta trailed 78-63 after a lay-up by Peter Koch with 11:52 remaining, but compiled a 17-0 run over the next 4:11 to climb ahead 80-78. Five ties and five lead changes later, John Carroll went up for good 92-90. The Streaks extended their lead to 14 in the final minute and left town with a 111-101 victory, their 12th straight on the road.

Sophomore Brandon Mimes led all scorers with 27 points for and had a game-high 11 boards for John Carroll. Michael Grogan (22), Justin Ragor (14) and John Curran (10) all finished in double figures, while Pete Moran dished out a game-high nine assist.

Marietta was led by senior Chad Sponseller (Canton/GlenOak) and sophomore Craig Stewart (Circleville), who each poured in 22 points. Senior Matt Hines (Waverly/Eastern Pike) added 21 points and seven rebounds and now has sole possession of 11th place on Marietta's all-time scoring list with 1,316 points.

Freshman Josh Hull (Nitro, WV/Poca) added 11 points for the Pioneers, who shot 34-of-88 (38.6%) from the floor and 13-of-44 (29.5%) from long range. Marietta has now made a single-season school record 241 three-pointers. JCU finished 41-of-88 (46.6%) from the field and out rebounded MC 63-47 in the win.

Marietta will return to the hardwood Wednesday (Jan. 26) against Mount Union at home on Fenton court at 7:30 p.m.

Sophomore Chad Sponseller had 22 points against John Carroll

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