SEATTLE, Wash. – The Central Washington University men's basketball team (17-7, 11-3 GNAC) bounced back on Saturday evening with a nail-biting win against Seattle Pacific University (14-13, 10-5 GNAC), as the 'Cats clinched a berth to the GNAC Championships.
Quoting Head Coach Brandon Rinta
"That game felt like a heavyweight match. We each had the lead for about half the game. Our guys overcame a lot of adversity to get this road win. Sisk gave us some great minutes today. Maverick got us going early and was able to come up with some big buckets. Holden had some key steals and assists. We didn't shoot it well today, but Garrett hit two huge threes late and added a lay up to put us up three."
Notable Stats
- The game's main story was Garrett Anderson, whose 22 points led the way for the Crimson and Black, securing the victory 68-66.
- Maverick Sanders had an impressive performance with 20 points and 8 rebounds, showcasing his abilities on the offensive glass. Cavin Holden was the only other Central player to score in double figures with 10 points.
- The 'Cats had 17 second chance points, showcasing their efforts to create extra opportunities on offense.
First Half
- Both teams came out strong to start the game, trading the lead back and forth.
- Sanders started the game hot, hitting both of his first shots, giving the 'Cats an early 4-2 lead.
- With 44 seconds left, Holden converted two free throws, to give the Crimson and Black a 32-30 lead going into the half.
Second Half
- The Falcons came out shooting lights out, giving them a 40-36 advantage early in the half.
- With 11:03 left in the game, CWU trailed 50-41, marking SPU's largest lead of the game.
- The Wildcats cut the lead down to five when Garrett Anderson drilled a two-point jump shot with 7:22 remaining, 49-54.
- With 4:13 remaining, Cavin Holden sinks both free throws to give the 'Cats the advantage, 59-58.
- With 28 seconds remaining, Anderson hit a clutch shot to seal the victory for CWU, 68-66.
Up Next
The Crimson and Black return home to take on the Western Oregon University Wolves on Thursday, Feb 20. Tip-off from Nicholson Arena is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.