TIFFIN—The Heidelberg University Men's basketball team battled through a physical OAC contest on Saturday, coming up just short in a 75-71 setback to Muskingum at Seiberling Gymnasium.

Despite missing several key contributors to illness, the Student Princes played with confidence early, establishing tempo on offense and carrying a narrow advantage into halftime. Heidelberg shared the ball well and defended with purpose in the opening half, limiting Muskingum's rhythm and putting together several strong stretches on both ends of the floor.

Trey Killens led the way with 23 points, while Marcos Vazquez added 14. Killens and Brady Bosma both pulled down eight rebounds, Killens went a perfect 6-6 from the free throw line, and Vazquez knocked down 3 of 4 from beyond the arc. In his first career start, Xzander Ream added 12 points. Riley Gossom had 10 points.

The Muskies adjusted after the break, increasing pressure defensively and finding critical buckets to give themselves a chance to secure the victory. Both teams traded the lead in the second half before Muskingum grabbed the lead for good with 1:42 left to play. 

Heidelberg returns after the New Year with a matchup on the road at Thiel College. Tipoff is set for 3 p.m. on Jan. 3rd.