HOLLAND, Mich. – Chad Carlson scored seven of his 12 points during a 13-0 run as third-ranked Hope College erased a 14-point deficit with eight minutes to play and escaped with a 68-65 victory over Albion College on the opening night of Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball action.
Albion led 31-29 at halftime and it extended the margin to 13 five minutes into the second half. Dakota Kazen produced Albion’s first two baskets of the second half and Jaylen Fordham tacked on a three-point basket and a layup.
Albion led 58-44 on Fordham’s layup with 7:43 to play.
Albion committed three turnovers and missed two shots while Hope went on its run, as the Briton lead melted to 58-57 on Brock Benson’s layup with five minutes left.
Albion held off Hope at first, getting a three-point basket by Fordham to hold a 62-57 lead with four minutes left.
Hope scored the next five points on baskets by Benson and Alex Eidson to forge a tie at 62. Benson scored the Flying Durchmen’s final four points from the free throw line.
Fordham led all players with a career-high 24 points, connecting on 9-of-13 shots. Jordan Herron added 12 points.
Hope had three in double figures, led by Benson’s 17. Ben Gardner chipped in with 14.
Albion returns home Saturday for a 3 o’clock game against Calvin College.