INDIANAPOLIS, IN — In a game that will be etched in the history books, the IU Columbus men's basketball team earned their first-ever win in program history, defeating Marian (IN) 83-77 on the road. With the victory, IU Columbus (1-12) celebrated a historic moment that marked the beginning of what could be a new chapter for the program.
The game started with both teams exchanging leads in a fast-paced first half. Marian (IN), playing in front of their home crowd, was able to keep it close going in at the half at 31-35. Ben Sylva, who was in rhythm from the start, led the team with 25 points and 10 rebounds, and Owen Law contributed a strong 18 points and 10 rebounds. Despite Marian's efforts, shooting just 40% from the field, IU Columbus was able to position themselves to maintain the lead and control after halftime.
The second half, however, was where IU Columbus truly shined. Leading by just four points at halftime, the team came clung to that lead and never looked back. Sylva continued his dominant performance in the second half, including a clutch 3-pointer late in the game to maintain the lead. Owen Law (18 points and 10 rebounds) and Bobby Wonnell (14 points and 3 assists) were instrumental in the win as well.
While Sylva and Law were the standout performers, it was the team effort that propelled the Crimson Pride to victory. The team shot 50.8% from the field (33-65) and 44.4% from three-point range (8-18), showing their efficiency on offense. Damontae Thompson, who finished with 9 points and 5 assists, played a crucial role in facilitating the offense, while Gavin Dowling grabbed 11 rebounds to help control the glass.
Marian, led by Elhadj Diallo (23 points) and Noah Lovan (18 points), made a late push, but IU Columbus responded with timely baskets and solid defense. Despite Marian's free-throw advantage (15-20 compared to IU Columbus' 9-15), the visitors managed to hold off the home team's efforts to close the gap.
This victory marks the start of a new era for the IU Columbus men's basketball program. The win is not just a single victory but a foundation on which the team can build for the future. The team's resilience, determination, and belief in each other were on full display throughout the game, and this victory serves as a testament to their growth.
With the first win now in the books, IU Columbus looks to carry this momentum into the second half of their season, and conference play. The team returns to action, back on their home court, January 4, for a men's-women's conference doubleheader. Tip-off for the men's game is set for 1:00 pm.
