Miami OH defeats W Michigan 87-76
Miami OH Edges W Michigan in Conference Showdown
The Miami University RedHawks took down the Western Michigan Broncos 87-76 on Wednesday night at Millett Hall, handing their Mid-American Conference rivals a tough home loss.
Despite trailing by four points at halftime, the RedHawks came out strong in the second half, outscoring W Michigan by 17 points. The difference between the two teams was evident from the start, with Miami OH's Almar Atlason leading the way with 21 points on 3-7 three-point shooting and a perfect field goal percentage.
Atlason's hot shooting was matched by his teammate Peter Suder, who added 12 points, five assists, and eight rebounds. Justin Kirby chipped in with eight rebounds and 10 points off the bench.
For W Michigan, Jayden Brewer led the charge with 19 points and nine rebounds, but struggled from three-point range, going 0-1. The Broncos' offense was hindered by a dismal three-point shooting performance, making just four of 16 attempts (25%).
The RedHawks' balanced attack proved too much for W Michigan to handle, as they outrebounded their opponents 41-34 and committed just 14 turnovers compared to the Broncos' 11. Miami OH's defensive effort was highlighted by seven blocks and six steals.
In a game that saw both teams struggle from the field, the RedHawks' free throw shooting ultimately proved decisive. They made 27 of 34 attempts (79%), while W Michigan shot just 16-22 (73%). The difference in foul shooting margin was a significant factor in Miami OH's victory.
The win moves Miami OH to 8-5 on the season, while W Michigan falls to 9-6.