FOND DU LAC, Wis. - Marian University men's basketball (0-1, 0-0 NACC) couldn't hold off a second half charge from Beloit as the Sabres dropped their season opener 74-54.

Both teams traded baskets early in the first half with the Buccaneers jumping out on the Sabres by seven forcing an early Sabre timeout. Marian used the break to bounce back and tie the game at 26 with 6:13 left in the first half. The Buccaneers answered, however, and responded to the Sabre spurt by taking a 36-31 lead into halftime.

Marian opened the second half strong scoring the first six points of the half to cut the lead to one, but the Buccaneers were able to hold off the charge and re-extended their lead.  The Sabre offense would continue to cut into the lead but each time Beloit was able to hold off MU ultimately leading to a 74-54 final. 

Beloit finished the game shooting 30-57 (.526) including 8-17 (.471) from beyond the three-point line.  The Buccaneers were also able to outrebound Marian 45-30, but the Sabre defense was able to force 24 turnovers.

Junior Reggie Roemer and sophomore Tyrese Pinson led the way with a game-high 14 points, while Pinson also recorded five steals. 

Marian next hits the road for the Buzz Levick Tournament where the Sabres open with host Wartburg Friday, Nov. 18 with an 8 p.m. tip-off.

--FightBlueFight--