ARDEN HILLS, Minn.—Bethel University's men's basketball team scored 38 points in both halves Saturday afternoon to defeat Augsburg College at home 76-56. The Royals sixth win over the last eight games marked the second time this season BU had defeated the Auggies by 20 points or more. The victory also assures the Royals a trip back to the MIAC Playoffs for the 14th time in the last 16 years!
 
The Royals dominated Augsburg inside—outscoring their opponent 40-28 in the paint. Additionally, Bethel was able to convert on 55 percent of their shots taken from the floor and 42.1 percent from downtown. On the flip side, BU's defense held the Auggies to 39 percent shooting from the floor and just 1-of-13 from downtown.
 
Kyle von Schmidt-Pauli was sensational throughout the first half, as the junior forward finished the opening frame 5-of-5 from the floor and 4-of-4 from downtown. VSP's 14 in the first 20 minutes was capped off by four more in the second half for a total of 18 points and four rebounds.
 
Jared Nelson also had a nice contribution Saturday, as he finished the initial half 2-of-3 from downtown and 3-of-3 from the free throw line. Nelson finished the game with 12 points and two rebounds in 21 minutes to lead Bethel's bench throughout the afternoon.
 
At the end of the conference clash, however, it was Kyle Zimmermann, who again led the pack with a game-high 20 points and six rebounds in 29 minutes. Coming into today, Zimmermann led the league in total points, rebounds, and blocks.
 
Three players scored in double figures for the Auggies, including Joe Zangel who bettered his season average (7.6 points) coming into the game with a 17-point performance.
 
Bethel continues its tiring stretch on Monday night when they travel to St. Peter to face Gustavus Adolphus at the Gus Young Court. Tipoff between the Royals and the Gusties is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. The conference showdown will be part of BU's four games in eight days to end the regular season.