by Brett LaBore

MANKATO, Minn.  – The Bethany men's basketball team (0-1) opened their 2017-18 season in front of a great crowd on Wednesday night. The Vikings hosted Buena Vista University (1-0) out of Storm Lake, Iowa and lost a thriller, 82-85.
 
The Beavers controlled the tempo of the game early, imposing their will on the offensive end of the floor while slowing the Viking attack. Buena Vista gathered 10 offensive rebounds which led to 12 second-chance points in the first half. Additionally, the Beavers were able to gather eight easy points off five Viking turnovers. Trenton Krueger, sophomore – forward, went 9-10 from the field in the first half for 19 points to keep the Vikings close. Buena Vista led at the break, 49-35.
 
In the second half, the Vikings put together a rally after being down 14 points at halftime. The rally was steady and strong and eventually led to the Vikings tying the game at 77 points after a drive and kick three-point shot found the bottom of the net from Blake Lindstrom. The Vikings appeared to gain the upper-hand after a defensive stop resulted in a rebound, but the Beavers ripped the ball away for another opportunity. Buena Vista ended on a 6-3 run, led by a three-point play by Beavers senior Thomas Wisecup.
 
The Vikings got a huge contribution all night from Minnesota-Duluth transfer sophomore Trenton Krueger. He led the team with 31 points, keeping them in the game. He also tallied four blocks. As a team, the Vikings recorded 16 assists, led by senior Neil Eichten with four.
 
Up Next: The Vikings remain at home playing a non-conference game against Concordia-Moorhead on Saturday, November 18 at 2 PM.

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MEDIA: If you need further information, please feel free to contact Dan DeWitt at 507-344-7856 or email ddewitt@blc.edu