Bench Production Powers Lakers to Tenth Straight Win

By Patrick Gordon/Lakeland Sports Information

Kirtland, OH---No. 12 Lakeland posted a 47-15 advantage in points off the bench on its way to a 92-73 victory over visiting Edison on Saturday afternoon.  

The win moves the Lakers to 6-0 in Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) play and marks the midway point in the conference schedule.

Charles Oliver led all scorers with 19 points while three other Lakers, all coming off the bench, reached double figures.  Sophomore forward Chaz Rollins chipped in 18 points and seven rebounds in just 18 minutes while Daishon Robinson and Chris Jefferies added 12 and 10 points, respectively.  The hosts held a 47-15 advantage in bench points and held the Chargers to 37% shooting on the afternoon.

Lakeland (17-4, 6-0 OCCAC) opened the game with a 9-0 run and never looked back, taking a 53-43 lead into the half before holding Edison to 29% shooting over the final 20 minutes.  Brandon Ervin led the Chargers with 17 points but needed 19 shots to get there.

Richard Smith posted another complete game for the Lakers, finishing with seven points, six rebounds, and five blocks.  Second in the nation in blocks per game, Smith is just 13 shy of Ray Chambers' single-season record of 94.  The sophomore forward is averaging nearly five per game.

The Lakers host Columbus State (13-8, 2-4) on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. inside the Athletic & Fitness Center.

Notes

- Lakeland is one victory away from tying its longest win streak under 10th year head coach Terry Bowe. 
- Charles Oliver is 12th in the nation in three point shooting percentage, connecting on 49.5% of his tries from beyond the arc.
- Lakeland has won seven straight against Edison, last falling to the Chargers on February 14, 2009.