SPRINGFIELD, Ohio — The strong start that had eluded the Wittenberg Tigers through the first three games of the 2011-12 season came in handy in a 69-57 win over Oberlin in the North Coast Athletic Conference (NCAC) opener for both teams.
The Tigers, who evened their overall record at 2-2, scored the first eight points of the game and never allowed the Yeomen closer than five points the rest of the way. Oberlin, which has not beaten Wittenberg since 1979 — a span of 45 straight games, dropped to 2-4.
Balance was the key for the Tigers, who put five players in double figures but did not have anyone finish with more than 12 points. Perhaps most impressive was the performance turned in by sophomore Scott Masin (New Carlisle, Ohio/Bethel) as he recorded his second double-double of the season (11 points and 11 rebounds) in his first collegiate starting assignment.
The Tigers' leading scorers were senior Josh McKee (New Carlisle, Ohio/Tecumseh) and senior Alex Brandt (Lewis Center, Ohio/Olentangy) with 12 points apiece. McKee added three rebounds, two assists and four steals, while Brandy chipped in with six rebounds in 20 minutes off the bench.
Senior Michael Cooper (Springfield, Ohio/South) and senior Clayton Black (Lancaster, Ohio/Lancaster) added 10 points apiece for the Tigers, who shot 42.6 percent from the floor but managed just two three-pointers in the game. Key to the game was the rebounding differential as Wittenberg finished with 43, compared to 24 for Oberlin.