Injuries tame Griffins at Spalding

Louisville, Ky. - Fontbonne University men's basketball hit the road Friday for their annual trip to Louisville to take on SLIAC rival Spalding University. After defeating the Golden Eagles for the first time earlier this season, and in a tight SLIAC race for tournament play, the Griffins needed to come out strong today. But hindering their drive are injuries to starters Richard Dorhauer and Ben Kissing. Both were off the roster for the game and the Griffins fell 78-60 for to go back to an even conference record. Fontbonne and Spalding are tied 8-11 overall and 6-6 in SLIAC play.

Fontbonne shot a dry 32.1% in the first-half and couldn't contain Spalding's Brandon Goeing who recorded 15 points to give Spalding a 40-23 halftime lead. Second-half play was much tighter, but the Griffin's first-half deficit was too large for a comeback. Freshman Kris McCann managed eight points during the final frame. Despite shooting issues, Jared Greenlee brought in eight rebounds including seven defensive and senior Lelis Djona recorded seven while going three-of-four on the day.

Nick Trisko dominated second-half play for Spalding with 11 points and 10 rebounds. He finished the game with 18 rebounds (eight offensive) and 17 points while Goeing notched 22 points and Rylan Rowe scored 19. 

Fontbonne travels to Westminster College Wednesday with an 8 p.m. tipoff.