DECORAH, Iowa - The Luther men's basketball nearly mounted a comeback against Bethany Lutheran College in the second half but came up short falling 76-71. In the second half there were two lead changes and three ties. The Vikings went on a 7-5 run to secure the victory over the Norse. Luther drops to 1-8 overall.
In the first half both teams shot 50 percent from beyond the arc but Luther trailed going into halftime 39-43. A layup from
Andre Palavra tied the game at 43-43 with 19:27 to play in the contest. After a missed shot on the next play by Bethany Lutheran,
Aidan Bailey put the Norse ahead for the first time in the game with his diving layup in the paint at 18:39. Later the Vikings reclaimed the lead at 52-51 with 14:51. Bethany Lutheran maintained the advantage for the rest of the game even though Luther would pull within three points four times in the second half. The Vikings won the game 76-71.
Palavra led the team with 17 points for a season high.
Will Bockenstedt was 6-8 from the floor and 3-5 from beyond the arc for 15 points.
Matthew Franzen had nine points all from the three-point line.
Mikkel Schutte and Bailey each had eight points and eight rebounds.
Bethany Lutheran is 2-5 overall while Luther is 1-8 overall.
Up Next
Luther will have a break until the Jack Berkshire Classic hosted by Ogelthrope University in Atlanta, Ga. on Dec. 29-30. The Norse will face the host Stormy Petrels on Sunday, Dec. 29 at 4 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. CT.
