ROCHESTER, Mich. — The Oakland Golden Grizzlies men's basketball team (9-8, 5-1 HL) secured a 97-74 victory over Cleveland State (5-12, 1-5 HL) on Friday night in the first of two games in a weekend stretch of Horizon League action at the OU Credit Union O'rena. Oakland pulled ahead with a strong second half, scoring 52 points, fueled by a 46-point effort in the paint and a 21-point contribution on fast breaks. CSU narrowed the gap with a 47-point second-half performance but ultimately fell short against a strong offensive rebounding effort by the home team.

"We have to take advantage of what we're really good at, and we're really fast and we can really score," said head coach Greg Kampe. "From this game, sometimes the best coaching is just stepping back and just letting good players play."

Senior Ziare Wells recorded a season-high total of 23 points, connecting on 10 of 17 shots from the field, picking up eight rebounds, and added in three steals. Fifth-year Michael Houge recorded a double-double with 18 points and 10 rebounds, making all eight of his free throw attempts as junior Isaac Garrett also connected for a double-double, contributing 12 points and 10 rebounds while blocking two shots and recording at least 12 total points in his third consecutive game. Senior Brody Robinson posted 13 points, delivered eight assists—exceeding his season average of 5.56—and tallied three steals.

Oakland established an early rhythm with a strong opening, overcoming an initial deficit to seize control. Wells sparked the team with a series of fast-break points and a timely dunk, contributing to a run that shifted the lead in favor of Oakland. Robinson played a pivotal role, providing key assists and defensive rebounds that maintained momentum.

As the half progressed, Oakland capitalized on second-chance opportunities and fast breaks, widening the gap. Fifth-year Brett White II's consistent shooting from beyond the arc and Houge's efficiency at the free-throw line further extended the lead. Oakland closed the first half ahead, 45–27, demonstrating effective ball movement and defensive pressure.

Oakland capitalized on their offensive momentum early in the second half, maintaining control through effective scoring in the paint and from beyond the arc. Garrett's jumper and Robinson's 3-pointer helped Oakland reestablish a strong lead at 16:33. Oakland continued to push the pace with fast-break opportunities, highlighted by Wells' layup and subsequent three-point play at 15:18.

As the half progressed, Oakland's defense remained resilient, forcing turnovers and converting them into points, with Robinson's steal and layup at 11:41 further extending the lead. Oakland's offensive efficiency was bolstered by contributions from multiple players, including Houge's layup and free throw conversion at 3:35.

Fifth-year Tuburu Naivalurua achieved a season-high of eight free throws made, contributing to his impressive streak of scoring double-digits in five consecutive games.

The home team closed the half confidently, with freshman MJ Yeager's first collegiate career points: a three-pointer near the top of the arc at 1:42. solidifying their advantage. The half ended with Oakland outscoring the Vikings 52–47, maintaining a comfortable lead heading into the final stretch.

The Golden Grizzlies are back to finish their weekend home stand with a nationally televised game on ESPN2 as they host Wright State on Sunday, Jan. 11 at 3 p.m. at the OU Credit Union O'rena.


How to Follow Oakland Men's Basketball: For complete information on Oakland Men's Basketball follow the team on X at @OaklandMBB and head coach Greg Kampe at @KampeOU. The team is also on Instagram and Facebook.