Grand Rapids, MI – The Grace Christian University men's basketball was presented with the challenge of facing two Top 25 teams in the NAIA this weekend, playing host Cornerstone University (NAIA DII #12) on Friday night and then Indiana Tech (NAIA DII #23) on Saturday at the Cornerstone Classic.  After a lackluster first half ultimately sunk the Tigers against Cornerstone, they would follow up with a solid 40-minute performance on Saturday to defeat Indiana Tech and split the weekend, moving to 3-2 on the year thus far.

Friday Recap
The Golden Eagles of Cornerstone University outrebounded (56-35) and outshot the Tigers (17 made 3FG) en route to a 91-67 victory Friday night.  The game was evenly matched for the first 10 minutes, but after allowing a huge run midway through the first half, the Grace squad could not recover against a Golden Eagles squad that was fresh off a win over NAIA #1 Spring Arbor University.
 
"When you're playing one of the top teams in the country you can't have any bad moments," said Head Coach Gary Bailey postgame Friday.  "One five minute stretch cost us the opportunity to stay in this game.  When we gave up 15 straight points, it was devastating.  Then we play them even in the second half and gain ground.  We know we can play with anyone. But, we can't have those hiccups. I believe in this team and know that we will continue to get better because of their work ethic."
 
Austin Jackson led the Tigers on Friday with 22 points, followed by Brandon Winchester-Jones who poured in 17 and dished out 7 assists.
 
Saturday Recap
 A much better effort from the on both ends of the floor came on Saturday night from the Tigers, as they would lead the majority of the game and made the necessary plays down the stretch to come away with a 74-71 win over Indiana Tech.  A huge basket from Kierson Watts gave the Tigers a 72-71 lead with just under a minute remaining, and a couple free throws from Keoante Blackamore and two big defensive put the finishing touches on the game.
 
Senior Brandon Winchester-Jones led the Tigers with 24 points.  Blackamore scored 15 points and pulled down a career-high 14 rebounds for the Tigers.  Austin Jackson finished with 15 points.
 
The Tigers do not have much time to rest, as they are back in their home gym for a challenging match-up with NAIA DI #4 William Penn University on Sunday afternoon at 2:00 pm.