BIG RAPIDS, Mich. – The Parkside men's basketball program returned to the hardwood on Saturday afternoon. Looking to bounce back after a loss to No. 19 Ferris State earlier in the week, The Rangers would square off against No. 24 Ferris State. The Bulldogs would hold their ground at home topping the Rangers 69-60.
Inside the Box Score
- Josiah Palmer would carry the offensive load for the Rangers, leading all scorers in the game with 24 points. Palmer would shoot 9-18 from the field, including 5-10 from three.
- Teammate Cameron Mallory had a solid day offensively, supplying the Rangers with 14 points off the bench.
- As a team the Rangers would struggle offensively, shooting 36.2% from the field in the game. The Bulldogs would finish the game shooting at a 41.8% clip.
How it Happened
The opening moments of the game saw Ferris State strike first with a layup, but Parkside quickly responded with a three-pointer from
Ethan Ivan, assisted by
Josiah Palmer. The game remained tight as both teams traded baskets and defensive stops.
Ferris State capitalized on second-chance opportunities, including multiple tip-ins by Reece Hazelton. However, Parkside answered with efficient ball movement, leading to a layup by Palmer and a three-pointer from
Rokas Castillo, keeping the game close. Palmer continued his strong first half with multiple assists and key buckets, including a fastbreak three-pointer that gave Parkside a 21-20 lead with 7:56 to go in the opening half of play.
As the half progressed, Ferris State's Jaxson Whitaker heated up from beyond the arc, knocking down three triples to help push Ferris State ahead. Despite that, Parkside remained resilient, with
Nick Brown and Palmer each connecting from deep to keep their squad within striking distance.
A back-and-forth final few minutes saw both teams exchanging defensive stops and crucial baskets. With just under two minutes left, Brown hit a fastbreak three to bring Parkside within one at 32-31. However, Ferris State converted free throws in the final moments to take a 34-31 lead into halftime.
The Rangers would look to climb back in front as a
Josiah Palmer made a layup would bring them within one point. Ferris State responded with a series of strong plays, led by Owen Hardy, who dominated both ends of the floor with rebounds, assists, and a key block.
As the game progressed, Ferris State's defensive efforts intensified, leading to forced turnovers and crucial stops. Despite these challenges, Palmer managed to drain a three-pointer, keeping his team within three. However, Ferris State continued to answer and hold the lead.
A late push by Parkside saw Mallory hitting a three-pointer, followed by two free throws, cutting the deficit to three. However, Ferris State capitalized on Parkside's fouls, converting free throws, and continuing to dominate inside. Parkside made one last push, but missed shots and costly fouls sealed their fate. In the final minutes, Ferris State controlled the game at the free-throw line and bring home the 69-60 victory.
Up Next
The Rangers are now set to return home for their final two regular season games. Parkside will host Northern Michigan on Thursday with tip scheduled for 7:30 p.m. CST. Coverage can be found at ParksideRanger.com/coverage.
