Reading, Pa. (Feb. 4, 2017) – Alvernia University (13-8, 7-5) used double-digit scoring from four players to lift it to a 75-68 victory over Messiah College (11-9, 6-6) Saturday afternoon in MAC Commonwealth Men's Basketball action on Jack McCloskey Court.

The Crusaders grabbed an early lead, taking an 18-10 advantage through the first seven minutes. The Falcons responded with an 8-0 run to mirror Alvernia's opening series, locking the game at 18 midway through the first half.

Messiah generated a five point margin by the six minute mark, but Alvernia quickly turned the tide back in its favor as Mike Miller and Anthony Hedgepeth hit back-to-back 3s to pull ahead 33-32.

The Falcons were solid from the line to regain a 38-35 lead, however Miller was clutch once again with his third from beyond the arc for the fourth tie of the contest.

Alex Shippen then tacked on a 3 of his own just before the half to put Alvernia up 43-42.

The Crusaders came on even stronger in the second half as Marquis Marshall expanded on a 53-50 lead by netting four consecutive points with just 10 minutes remaining.

George Williams and Shippen then paired up to keep Messiah at bay, responding to every Falcon basket to maintain a six point margin.

Miller joined Shippen on the offensive end at the two minute mark as the duo drained a bucket a piece to give Alvernia its largest lead of the day at 71-61.  

The Falcons managed to come within five with just 30 seconds remaining in regulation, but a timely layup by Williams and a pair from the line by Marshall sealed the win.

Marshall lead the Crusaders with his fifth consecutive double-double of the season, netting 22 points with 17 boards. Williams added 18 points of his, while Shippen and Miller tacked on 16 and 14, respectively.

Josh Clippinger was offensive leader for Messiah, collecting 20 points and 11 rebounds.

Alvernia wraps up its four game home stand on Wednesday, hosting cross-town conference rival Albright at 8:00 p.m.