Sophomore Konnor Baker leads Men's Basketball as they fall to #9 Marietta 74-65

By: Ashley Birchmeier

MARIETTA — Sophomore Konnor Baker scored a team-high 14 as men's basketball falls to No. 9-ranked Marietta 74-65 Sunday afternoon at the Ban Johnson Arena to close out the regular season.

Ohio Northern finishes the regular season 12-13 overall and 7-11 in the 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.