After a sluggish start Thursday night against Northern Michigan University, the Grand Valley State men’s basketball team again overcame another slow start on Saturday, but found their game and rolled to a 77-63 victory over visiting Michigan Tech.

Paced by senior forward Justin Ringler’s 20 points, the Lakers (10-1 GLIAC, 15-3 overall) used a 13-0 run mid-way through the first half to take control over Michigan Technological University (5-5 GLIAC, 10-7 overall). Despite his final stat line, Ringler’s production in the first half did not come easily as the senior shot only 2-of-7 from the field.

“I try not to think about scoring when I’m on the court,” said Ringler, who also had four assists and four rebounds. “You just have to keep playing. If I’m not shooting well, I try to do everything else, but seeing the ball go in definitely helps.”

Throughout the first half, GVSU tried to get their offense going through their screen-and-roll with Ringler and center Asauhn Tatum or by posting up their guards in the high-post.

Three-point shooting – which has been one of the Lakers’ most valuable assets this season – was not on their side Saturday, as Michigan Tech held them to 4-of-13 shooting.

“We have a lot of respect for Michigan Tech, they do a great job and it’s always a fist fight, grind-it-out-type game, so shots are hard to come by,” said head coach Ric Wesley, whose team is shooting 38.7 percent from three-point range this season. “In the conference season everything gets more physical, and offensively it comes down to who can own the block and painted area.”

Following the sluggish start, the Lakers’ bench sparked the team in all aspects of the game. Their shooting and defense were catalysts for the 13-0 run, and their ability to force turnovers and draw charges on the Huskies proved important in throwing Michigan Tech off their rhythm.

The Lakers led 37-24 at halftime, giving them a perfect 15-0 record this season when leading at halftime.

Assisting Ringler’s all-around game were junior guards Alvin Storrs and James Thomas. Storrs, who has been the team’s top scorer the last three games, continued his recent streak by finishing with 13 points and four rebounds.

Thomas’ play Saturday was more balanced than his normal production. The team’s second-leading scorer has struggled with his shot in recent games but contributed to the winning effort Saturday by grabbing a team-high five rebounds.

“I think I’m a real capable player and when I’m not shooting well I can bring other things to the table,” said Thomas, who’s averaging 9.4 points per game. “Stuff like rebounding and playing good defense are ways for me to help my team instead of getting down on myself.”

After a strong finish in the first half, the Lakers struggled to contain Michigan Tech forward Ali Haider, who scored 15 of his game-high 25 points in the half. The Huskies leading scorer was guarded by everyone from Ringler to back-up center Nick Waddell, but his offense continued to keep Michigan Tech in the game.

“We had more success early guard their big guys, but as the game went on Haidar had a tremendous night,” said Wesley. “We fouled him too much; we made poor decisions on when to bring our help, but you have to give him credit.”

Despite the lead floating around 10 points, the Lakers pulled away late and notched their tenth conference win of the season. Now the Lakers prepare for their match-up against rival Ferris State University in the 131 Showdown at Van Andel Arena on Saturday at 8 p.m. [email protected]