McGuirt's Big Half Sparks Red Hawks Win

The Lake Michigan College Red Hawks men struggled to get their offense going during the first half of a road match-up with the Vikings. Glen Oaks exploded out to an early lead and continued to build it throughout the half. The Red Hawks only surge came from Justin Henderson who went in to the half with 12 points and 10 rebounds. The Vikings were able to connect on six three-point attempts in the half and saw their lead expand as far as 26 points. The Red Hawks finally settled the game down as the half neared its end, bringing it all the way back to a 15-point margin headed to halftime, 50-35.

The Red Hawks performed much better in the second half, sparked by early pressure that created transition opportunities that helped bring the difference back to single digits. Jordan Hogans led the attack, creating three steals and easy opportunities on the other end. Then the Red Hawks bench came to life and took over the second half. Jaguar Jackson continued what Hogans started, creating problems for the Vikings through defensive pressure and aggressive offensive attacks, netting a quick eight points himself. The star of the half though was Andrew McGuirt, who connected on his final six attempts from three-point range leading to his 22 point half. In all, the Red Hawks connected on 11 three-point attempts and held the Vikings without a single three pointer made.

The Red Hawks caught the Vikings midway through the half and the lead went back and forth that contributed to an intense finish. McGuirt's continued success and the Red Hawks swarming defense gave the men a six point lead heading into the final minute. The Vikings quickly turned to fouling the Red Hawks looking to create extra opportunities for themselves, but Khaire Williams refused to let the Vikings have a chance as he connected on all ten free throw opportunities he had in the final minute sealing a 105-99 victory for Lake Michigan.

Williams lead the Red Hawks with 27 points, 3 assists, and 3 blocked shots, McGuirt totaled 25 points on 8 of 10 shooting. Henderson recorded a double-double with 17 points and 12 rebounds, Hogans added 11 points and 8 assists, and Adrien Bucha-Moore chipped in 10 points.

The Red Hawks head back on the road for their next contest as they travel to Muskegon Community College on Wednesday, January 30, 2019 for a 7:30 pm tip.