MADISON, N.J. – The Wilkes University men's basketball team defeated Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC) Freedom opponent FDU-Florham by a 74-59 final on Wednesday evening behind an excellent defensive effort that saw the Colonels hold the Devils, a team that normally shoots 41 percent (494-1210) from the field and 28 percent (97-350) from three-point range to just 33 percent (20-60) and 19 percent (5-26), respectively.

Wilkes improved to 4-5 in MAC Freedom play and 10-10 overall with the win.

The Colonels held a one-point lead through the first four minutes at 7-6 before they finished the first half on a 26-15 run to enter halftime with a 33-21 lead.

The Devils started the second half on an 8-2 run to cut Wilkes' lead to 35-29 with 17:40 remaining in the game, and were able to get as close as 44-40 with 12:19 on the clock. Over the next seven minutes the Colonels took control, using a 19-9 run highlighted by a dunk from sophomore Tommy Bowen (Hummelstown, Pa./Lower Dauphin) to push their lead to 63-49 with 5:23 in the contest. Wilkes' lead never fell below double figures as freshman Mark Mullins (Binghamton, NY/Chenango Valley) and sophomore Connor Evans (Cicero, N.Y./Cicero-North Syracuse) hit two free throws each in the final 1:33 to seal the 15-point victory.

The Colonels were led by Evans, who finished with 21 points. Mullins added 14 points and seven rebounds while sophomore Marcus Robinson (Swedesboro, N.J./Kingsway Regional) contributed 12 points and five rebounds.

FDU-Florham was led by sophomore Anthony Mitchell, who finished with 20 points, six rebounds, and four assists. Senior Donte Ali contributed 13 points and 13 rebounds.

Wilkes outscored the Devils 32-22 in the paint.

The Colonels return to action on Saturday when they host Manhattanville in MAC Freedom play. Saturday's game will be played at 2 p.m. with the Wilkes Athletics Hall of Fame induction ceremony following the game.