RICHMOND, Ind. – For the third time in five games to open the 2018-19 season, the University of Michigan-Dearborn men's basketball team faced a national semifinalist from last season as the Wolverines opened the First Bank Richmond Classic against No. 2 Indiana University-East Friday in Richmond, Ind.
The Wolverines cut an early double-digit deficit to one point on several occasions in the second half, but the Red Wolves held on and pulled away for a 79-67 win. The loss drops UM-Dearborn to 1-4 this season.
Freshman Zach Lattimer continued his strong start to the season with 17 points, including five 3-pointers off the bench for the Wolverines. Senior Mafiaion Joyner added 12 points and 12 rebounds for a double-double, while sophomore Jason Gigliotti finished with 11 points and seven rebounds.
The Wolverines shot 26-of-62 from the field, 7-of-23 from deep and 8-of-15 from the line, while narrowly winning the rebounding battle 42-41.
IU-East was led by Bishop Smith with 25 points, including four 3-pointers.
The Wolverines finish play at the Richmond Classic against No. 20 IU-Southeast at 1 pm Saturday.
