Wabash gave the seventh-ranked team in the nation in the latest NAIA Division II polls everything it could handle. With Wabash trailing by nine at halftime, the Little Giants faced an attacking, full court press by Marian to open the second half of play. Battling through the press and quick defense of the Knights, Wabash cut the lead to two on a basket by Pleas Ferguson (Indianapolis, IN/Arsenal Tech) with 16 minutes remaining.
Marian jumped the lead back to nine before a basket by Joe DesJean (Indianapolis, IN/Perry Meridian) and a three-pointer by Matt Storm (Anderson, IN/Lapel) trimmed the deficit back to four. The Knights responded to go on an 11-0 run to start their run for the championship title.
DesJean led the Little Giants with 17 points. Ferguson finished with 15, earning both players a spot on the all-tournament team.
Wabash is 1-6 for the year. The Little Giants will travel to Denision University on Saturday.
Box Score - Championship game of the Pete Thorn Invitational
Marian 86, Wabash 68
Box Score - Consolation game of the Pete Thorn Invitational
Huntington 88, Blackburn 72