ARDEN HILLS, Minn.—Bethel University's men's basketball team got back to their winning ways Saturday afternoon thanks to a 94-70 home victory over Hamline University. The Royals (12-4, 8-3 MIAC) and Pipers (10-6, 7-4 MIAC) were tied for second in the MIAC standings heading into the weekend matinee, but a win for BU (and a loss for Saint John's) put Bethel back on top in a three-way tie with SJU and St. Thomas.

The Royals had a huge advantage on the glass Saturday, as BU out-rebounded the Pipers 37-18. Hamline was allowed just three offensive boards, opposed to Bethel's nine. The Royals also recorded 29 defensive rebounds, opposed to the Pipers' 15. That stark difference led to a 42-24 advantage for BU in points scored in the paint.
 
Bethel had six players score in double figures, which proved to be a first this season. Granger Kingland led all players with 18 points and eight rebounds in 21 minutes played, while Bridgeport Tusler was right behind with 17 points, five boards, three assists, two blocks, and two steals.

Also adding significant contributions was Trevor Hall, who posted 15 points, eight rebounds, and six assists. Jack Jenson tallied 13 points, four assists, and three boards, while Brycen Wojta posted 12 points and two rebounds. Derek Magnuson rounded out BU's sextet with 10 points, five boards, and two assists in 21 minutes.

The Royals shot 61.4 percent throughout the entire 40 minutes of play, which included a 13-of-25 mark from downtown. Conversely, Hamline shot 48.0 percent from the floor and 41.7 percent from long range.

Bethel's season continues Wednesday, January 25, when they host St. Olaf College in the Robertson Center Gym at 7 p.m. The Royals defeated the Oles 67-59 in the first meeting this season.