Cornell hands Storm second conference defeat

Simpson got a career-high 19 points from Andrew Dau, but couldn't overcome an early defecit as Cornell handed the Storm its fifth straight loss 72-64 at Cowles Fieldhouse Saturday night.

The Rams (5-0, 2-0 IIAC) took control of the game early as the only time they trailed was 2-0. Cornell shot 65.5 percent in the first half compared to Simpson's 29.0 percent as it built a 44-27 lead after the first half.

The Storm was able to cut into the lead in the second half but never got closer than eight points. Despite recent second half struggles, Simpson (1-7, 0-2 IIAC) outscored Cornell 37-28 in the final half of play.

Tim Dunlavy chipped in 16 points, which included 8-for-8 shooting from the free-throw line. Dunlavy led the way with seven rebounds, while Zach Barragan added 13 points and Matt Fouch led with five assists.

The Storm shot an outstanding 94.4 percent from the free throw line – hitting on 17-of -18 attempts – but only shot 34.5 percent from the field. Simpson hit 7-of-17 three-point attempts.

Cornell controlled the boards, outrebounding Simpson 46-28, which included 15 on the offensive end. Chris Handke was strong on the glass, finishing with 16 rebounds to go with 17 points. J. Ryan Lott led the Rams with 22 points off the bench. Matt Lewis added 11 points and 6 assists.

Cornell outscored Simpson in the paint, 32-16.

The Storm will be back in action Dec. 11 when they travel to Crown College.