Panthers survive second half scare to extend winning streak

ORANGE, Calif. – The No. 24-ranked Chapman University men's basketball team maintained its unblemished record against Division III foes and won its seventh straight on Saturday afternoon, but not without a challenge from both its opponent and itself.

The Panthers defeated visiting Oglethorpe University (Ga.) 60-57 at the Hutton Sports Center after seeing a comfortable double-digit lead nearly evaporate into thin air. However, Chapman held on to stay perfect at home (3-0) and against Division III competition (8-0).

Chapman (9-1 overall) proved to be its own worst enemy on Saturday afternoon, committing 11 second half turnovers and shooting just 42.1 percent from the foul line in the game. The Panthers led by 11 points with 7:34 left in the game, but the Petrels fought back with a 14-4 run over the ensuing five-plus minutes to cut the Chapman lead to one. During that stretch Chapman committed four turnovers and was out-rebounded 10-4.

Despite their troubles at the free throw line, the Panthers made their foul shots when it mattered most. Oglethorpe (5-4) was forced to foul in the final minute of the game and Chapman made 4 of 6 from the line to provide just enough of a cushion to win in the end. The Petrels were never able to even the score or take the lead in the second half.

Chapman's 60-point performance was its lowest offensive production of the year, but was complimented once again by a stifling Panther defense that limited Oglethorpe to just 37.9 percent shooting from the floor. Chapman held its opponents under 60 points for the third time in four games and fifth time overall this season.

Senior F Justin Riley paced the Panthers with 14 points and nine rebounds. Senior guards Griffin Ramme and Max Piner pitched in 12 and 11 points, respectively. Ramme added four steals, as well.

For Oglethorpe, senior F Todd Ward led all scorers with 18 points and added seven boards. The Petrels fell to 2-3 on the road this season.

by Doug Aiken
Sports Information Director

Boxscore: http://www.chapmanathletics.com/sports/mbkb/2010-11/files/ou-cu.htm