GRINNELL, Iowa – Besides featuring a high-flying offense, the Grinnell College men's basketball team can play some strong defense, as well.
That was evident Tuesday night when the Pioneers collected 21 steals, their highest total in more than two years, in a 99-83 home win over Beloit College at Darby Gymnasium.
Grinnell, which has won nine in a row over the Buccaneers dating back to 2016, stretched their winning streak to three games while improving to 9-6 overall and 3-4 in the Midwest Conference.
The Pioneers forced 21 turnovers on 14 steals in the first half alone as they staked a 56-26 halftime lead. Beloit finished with 31 turnovers while dipping to 3-12 and 0-6 in the MWC.
Grinnell's steal total was the team's highest since collecting 22 against Westminster College on Nov. 26, 2019.
Patrick Simms '22, fresh off a rare triple-double, again led Grinnell with 24 points, five assists and a career-high five steals.
David Bluder '25 chipped in 22 points and
Adam Phillips '23 put up 15. Both had five 3-pointers.
Will Bebee '22 had 11 points, seven boards and two blocks and
Tate McLean '23 grabbed a career-high six rebounds.
As a team, Grinnell made a season-high 30 free throws
The Pioneers used a big spurt early in the first half to put the game out of reach. Leading 3-2, Simms drained a 3-pointer and free throw, Phillips another trey and Simms two free throws for a 12-2 edge.
After two baskets by Beloit,
Dean Mazlish '23 got a traditional three-point play and Bebee a layup to make it 17-6. The Pioneers continued to cruise, building their lead as big as 32 before settling for a 30-point halftime cushion. It was smooth sailing the rest of the way.
Grinnell will tackle preseason MWC favorite Ripon College Saturday in Darby Gymnasium. Tip-off is at 1 p.m.
