BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Marietta College men's basketball broke open a close game with a second half run to defeat the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford 70-54 Saturday (Nov. 21) evening in the consolation game of the Buffalo State University Coles Classic. [Box Score]

Sophomore Kevin Knab (Lakewood, Lakewood), who was selected to the All-Tournament Team, led Marietta (2-1) offensively for the third straight game. The post is now averaging 16.3 points and 7.7 rebounds this season after posting a 13-point and 8-rebound effort in the win over Pitt.-Bradford (1-3) on Saturday.

Knab received scoring support from freshman win Scott Kimmey (Olmsted Falls, Olmsted Falls), who poured in 3-of-5 from long range and also finished with 13 points. In addition, freshman guard Jacob Owens (Mansfield, Mansfield) hit 4-of-7 from beyond the arc and added 12 points in the win.

As a team, Marietta shot 25-of-62 (34.4%) from the floor, hitting 9-of-27 (33.3%) from three-point range. The Pioneers, who dominated the boards 45-36, also connected on 11-of-16 (68.8%) from the free throw line and overcame 14 turnovers. Pitt.-Bradford finished 18-of-56 (32.1%) from the field, including 3-of-11 (27.3%) from beyond the arc. The Panthers added 15-of-23 (65.2%) from the charity stripe and turned the ball over on 11 occasions.

The first 20 minutes saw no team gain an advantage greater than 4 points and featured 5 ties. Freshman wing Brian Crader (Thornville, Sheridan) broke the fifth tie with an offensive rebound and tip-in with 56 second left in the half. The basket gave Marietta a 32-30 lead at intermission.

The Pioneers' advantage remained at 2 points, 39-37, two minutes into the second period. Marietta, however, went on a 16-5 run over the next six minutes to take complete control, 55-42, with 12 minute left in the game. The Pioneers were then able to increase their lead to 17 points down the stretch and cruise to the 70-54 victory.

Pitt.-Bradford also had three players score in double figures on Saturday. Dan Heisey finished with a game-high 15 points. Mike Ridge added 12 points, and Sam Moore had 10 points and 5 assists in the loss.

Marietta is back in action on Sunday (Nov. 29) evening when it opens Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) play at Capital University. Tip-off is slated for 6 p.m. Live statistics as well as live video and audio will be available courtesy of Capital University.