UNIVERSITY CENTER, Mich. — The Davenport men's basketball team (13-13, 7-11 GLIAC) fell to Saginaw Valley State University (13-13, 7-11 GLIAC) 101-94 in a close Saturday contest at James E. O'Neill Jr Arena. Despite a strong second half where Davenport scored 59 points, the team was unable to overcome the Cardinals' 11 three-pointers and 36 made free throws. Davenport's defense recorded 10 steals and six blocks, contributing to a tense matchup with two ties and two lead changes.

Davenport made a significant push midway through the first half, fueled by a 10-0 run that included two 3-pointers and a fast-break layup, taking a brief lead over SVSU. The visitors converted 10-of-11 free throws, contributing to their first-half total. Despite their efforts, Davenport was outrebounded 19-13 and trailed 41-35 at the end of the half.

Davenport mounted a resilient effort in the second half, but ultimately fell short. Davenport's offense was fueled by converting 19-of-24 free throws and forcing seven turnovers from SVSU. Despite being outrebounded 21-14, Davenport capitalized on fast breaks with 13 points. At the end of the half, the scoreboard read 101-94 in favor of the Cardinals.

Former Cardinal Curtis Jackson scored 18 points and recorded eight assists, contributing significantly to the team's offensive efforts. Ken Walker led the team with 22 points, converting 11-of-13 free throws and adding two steals. Aidan Moon made a defensive impact with three blocks and scored 16 points, including two 3-pointers. Imran Deen contributed with seven points and two blocks, enhancing the team's defensive presence.

Xavier Thomas led the way for the Cardinals, scoring 23 points, including three 3-pointers, and converting 10-of-12 free throws while also contributing two blocks. Triston Nichols followed closely with 21 points on 6-of-9 shooting from the field and 9-of-11 from the free throw line, adding seven assists, eight rebounds, and two steals. Bryson Huckeby also delivered a strong performance, tallying 21 points with four 3-pointers, and securing seven rebounds. Marquese Josephs added 11 points and two blocks before fouling out.

In their next game, Davenport will host Grand Valley State on Tuesday, Feb. 24 at 7:30 p.m. inside the DU Student Center.

Game Notes:
- Moon scored a career-high 16 points and had a career-high three blocks
- Walker tied his season high with five rebounds
- Smith tied his season high with four assists
- DU 29-35 at the foul line, second most made this season
- SVSU with 3 20-point scorers, first time this season against DU
- 3rd time DU has allowed 100 points in a game this season
- SVSU 36-42 at the foul line, most makes and attempts by an opponent this season