Juniors Jon Schmiegel, Michael Schantz and Max Stromanall recorded double-doubles in points and rebounds as the Continentals brokeopen a 40-38 halftime lead by hitting on 26 of 34 second half free throws enroute to a 94-78 win. Hamilton, who never trailed, also had a 57-33 reboundadvantage, and held all five Middlebury starters under six points.
Schmiegel led all players with 22 points and a season-high 19 rebounds,while Schantz had 21 points and 10 boards. Combined, the two front-linestars hit on 23 of 29 (79%) foul shots. Stroman added 11 points and 10rebounds, while the two Hamilton guards, senior Kevin Thorpe andfreshman Jimmy Driggs had 17 and 13 points respectively.
The win improves Hamilton to 14-9, and keeps their NCAA playoff hopes alive.The Continentals were ranked fifth in the East Region coming into the game withMiddlebury. The top six teams qualify.