January 29, 2008 - After suffering three straight losses by a total of seven points, Tuesday night's non-league win over Tiffin was a feel-good one for the Hillsdale College men's basketball team.

Using a controlled, balanced offensive effort, the Chargers disposed of the Dragons 87-62 at Jesse Philips Arena. Hillsdale is now 11-8 on the season, and will host No. 2 Grand Valley State University at 8 p.m. Thursday.

Five players scored nine points or more, and the Chargers had a double-digit point advantage in each half in taking care of future GLIAC rival Tiffin. The Dragons will join the GLIAC as a full-time member starting this fall. The two teams will play again in Ohio on Saturday, Feb. 16.

Junior center Tony Gugino had his best game in a few weeks, totaling 28 points, seven rebounds and one blocked shot. Tiffin's forwards had a tough time guarding Gugino without fouling him. Gugino was an impressive 10-for-13 from the free throw line, and made nine of his 13 field goal attempts.

As a team, the Chargers had one of their finest games from the free throw line of the season, swishing 23 of their 26 attempts. Hillsdale held a 36-29 edge on the boards, and outscored Tiffin 23-3 from the charity stripe.

Freshman guard Joe Caruso also turned in a solid game with 11 points and three assists. He showed aggressiveness in shooting the ball and pushing the ball upcourt in transition.

Junior Keith MacKenzie was in total control of the offense, finishing with nine points, six rebounds and seven assists. Senior Tim Homan tacked on 14 points, and guard Evan Steward contributed 11.

Click on the link below for the box score from the game.

Box score