Bellevue Overpowers Viterbo

BELLEVUE, Neb. – The Viterbo University Men's Basketball team lost an NSAA battle to Bellevue University (Neb.), 82-49, on Saturday evening. The V-Hawks fall to 6-13 (0-4 NSAA) on the year, while the Bruins improve to 8-13 (3-2 NSAA).

Jack Monis would score the first basket of the game, as well as the first eight points for the V-Hawks. Cole Crubel then added a free throw with 13:00 minutes left to bring the score to 9-11. Despite layups from Crubel and Nick Malovrh, the Bruins were able to extend their lead, as Ben Olson hit a three to end the half with the V-Hawks down, 19-37.

Bellevue scored the first 10 points of the second half before Monis ended the run on a Mannel-assisted layup. Monis then found Colin Adams for a layup and hit another jumper, but BU was able to match each score. Crubel and Monis continued to lead the offense, and Mannel added a pair of free throws,  but Viterbo was unable to close the gap. Stefan Popovic, Lydell King, and Charlie Hansen all scored as the game expired, with the V-Hawks behind 82-49.

Monis led Viterbo with 22 points and seven rebounds, and Mannel had a game-high four assists. TJ Fritz had 19 for the Bruins, while Emarr Vinson had nine boards.

The Bruins shot 54.5% from the floor, including 41.2% from three, while the V-Hawks shot 33.3%, 16.7% from three. Bellevue also grabbed more rebounds, 38-33, but committed more turnovers, 13-12.

Viterbo returns to action on Friday, January 26 as they host Valley City State (ND) at 5:30 PM.