Gretzky scores 19 as Storm outlast Illinois Tech

DUBUQUE, Iowa - Dillon Gretzky had 19 points and six rebounds, and the Simpson men's basketball team beat Illinois Tech 78-72 to finish the Jon Davison Classic 1-1.

Sam Amsbaugh added 15 points and six rebounds off the bench for the Storm (7-4), earning a spot on the all-tournament team. Simpson responded after a 78-72 loss to Mt. Mercy yesterday.

A close game throughout, Simpson opened up a 67-59 lead in the second half with a 7-0 run, including a 3-pointer by DJ Dafney. The lead extended to as much as 72-61 on an Amsbaugh layup.

Sam Rarick had 29 points and 11 rebounds and Anthony Mosley added 22 points for the Red Hawks (2-11).

The teams came out hot, shooting a combined 54 percent from the field in the first half. Illinois Tech shot better than 58 percent in the first half and led 41-40 at the break. A layup by Ryan Skaar tied the game 47-47 early in the second half and Simpson took the lead for good on a free throw by Gretkzy.

With the win, the Storm surpassed last year's win total. 

Up next: Simpson begins Iowa Conference play Wednesday, Jan. 6 at Buena Vista.