Jonathan French
Assistant Director of Communications and Media
jfrench@transy.edu

HANOVER, IN - The Transylvania University Pioneers faced off against Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference opponent, Hanover College, on Tuesday night. After moving the game up a day due to weather and both teams looking to secure one last win before the conference tournament; Everyone knew the importance of the evening. The Pioneers fought hard throughout the 40 minutes but fell short losing 75-71.

The Hanover Panthers opened the game on a 7-0 run but were stopped by a fastbreak layup by Colby Napier. Hanover's offense continued to execute, making the lead 14-2 just inside the 15-minute mark. Transylvania started to click offensively going on a 9-0 run over two minutes. At the 11:12 mark, Jaxon Smith's three-point field goal cut the lead back within seven. A layup by Zach Stahlman and a dunk by Hunter Penn cut the lead to five. With 4:20 left in the half, Drew Marshall's three-pointer brought Transylvania within two. Within the final minute, Ian Reesor's and one layup put the Pioneers up one going into the half, 35-34. 

The first three minutes of the second half included both teams itching for momentum and the lead changing back and forth. The Panthers briefly had a five-point lead with 15 minutes left in the game. Napier and Marshall both had trips to the free throw line, where they would 3 of 4 to get Transylvania within two points of the lead. The next Pioneer possession, Napier's three-point field goal put Transylvania up one, 50-49. Hanover proceeded to go on a run of their own, with their highest lead of six coming at the 10:16 mark. A layup by Dakota Capps brought Transylvania back within one at 6:25. Hanover's late run put the Panthers just out of reach and Hanover maintained their lead as the second half came to an end. 

"We knew it was going to be a battle, and credit to Hanover for making the plays down the stretch," said Transylvania head coach Brian Lane. "I thought our guys showed a lot of resilience, especially after falling behind early. We fought back, took the lead at times, and put ourselves in a position to win, but in games like this, every possession matters. Now, we turn the page and get ready for Saturday. We've got another shot at them, and I have a feeling our guys will be ready.". 

The Transylvania Pioneers opening round of the Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference Tournament against #4 Hanover on Saturday afternoon. Transylvania will be on the road at Hanover and tip-off is to be determined. For more information, please visit transysports.com. 

Transylvania University is a proud member of NCAA Division III and the HCAC. To keep up to date with all of Transylvania Athletics, check out our website at www.transysports.com and follow @TransySports on Instagram.