Pipers snap losing streak against St. Olaf

Hamline (5-11, 3-8 in the MIAC) took an 8-2 lead to start the first half off back-to-back three pointers by seniors Kyle Foster and Sam Weiner.  The Oles (7-9, 4-7) took their only lead of the half with 12:03 remaining off a jumper by Matt Christenson.

With nine minutes left in the first half, Hamline went on a 21-6 run to take a 41-24 lead going into the break.  The Pipers finished the half shooting 57 percent from the field.  The team shot 54 percent from beyond the arc, including four three-pointers from Foster.

The Pipers led by as many as 20 points in the second half before the Oles started chipping away at the lead.  After Hamline took a commanding 51-31 lead to start the half, the Oles outscored the Pipers 33-16 over the next 15 minutes.  Junior Chad Norberg hit a three pointer with 1:21 remaining to bring the score within three.

Sophomore guard Jon DeRock hit two key free throws down the stretch to seal the win for the Pipers.

Foster led four Pipers in double figures.  He finished the game with 22 points to go along with nine rebounds.  DeRock and sophomore Zev Kujolic each added 12 points, while senior Sam Weiner chipped in 10 points, seven rebounds, and five assists.

St. Olaf was led in scoring by senior Jon Butala’s 21 points.  Jon Bain added 16 points and eight rebounds, and Norberg contributed 13 points.

The Pipers will continue in the second half of the MIAC season when they travel to Bethel on Monday night.  Game time is set for 5:45 p.m.