Wolverines tame Bryant

Wolverines tame Bryant

Bryant University continues to show poise, even in losing efforts.

Although they entered Thursday’s game at Michigan as heavy underdogs, the Bulldogs hung in for most of the first half before ultimately falling to the Wolverines, 87-71, at the Crisler Arena in Ann Arbor.

Sophomore Vlad Kondratyev led Bryant (1-10) with 20 points while freshman Matthew Lee set a new career high in scoring for third consecutive with 19 points. Kondratyev shot 5-of-6 from 3-point range and 70 percent overall while freshman Alex Francis chipped in with 17 points and nine rebounds.

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The Bulldogs shot a season-high 52 percent from 3-point range against Michigan (10-2) and led midway through the opening half before the Wolverines began to pull away down the stretch. Michigan hit three consecutive 3-pointers and opened up an 11-point lead before Bryant trimmed it to 10 at the break.

The Wolverines struggled from the field in the second half, but the Bulldogs also cooled off from 3-point range, allowing Michigan to open up a 17-point lead. Michigan also shut down Frankie Dobbs, limited him to just eight points and preventing him from reaching double figures for the first time all season.

With less than six minutes remaining, Bryant again closed to within 10, but the Wolverines hit their free throws down the stretch to ice the victory. Darius Morris led Michigan with 26 points and 12 assists. The Bulldogs will return to action Dec. 28 at home against Oberlin College.