LA GRANDE, Ore. — Key performances from several Mountaineers helped Eastern Oregon men's basketball secure a 72-65 victory over Corban University in Cascade Collegiate Conference action on Thursday evening at Quinn Coliseum.
Garrett Hawkes led the way for the Mountaineers with a team-high 16 points, along with two rebounds and a steal. The junior forward shot 6-for-15 from the field and connected on two of his three three-point attempts. Malachi Afework added 14 points, converting seven of eight free throws, while Brennen Newsom delivered a double-double with 12 points, 11 rebounds, and two blocks.
Eastern Oregon (9-5, 4-3 CCC) established control early, shooting a stellar 60% from the field in the first half to build a 39-31 lead at halftime. Despite being outscored 34-33 in the second half, the Mountaineers maintained their composure, using clutch free-throw shooting (76.9%) and 29 defensive rebounds to seal the win.
Corban (8-6, 6-2 CCC) fought valiantly, with Luc Krystkowiak pacing the Warriors with 12 points and four rebounds. RJ Veliz added 11 points and four rebounds, while Spivey Word chipped in 10 points and three rebounds. However, the Warriors struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 15.4% (2-for-13) from three-point range.
Key Stats:
- Points in the Paint: EOU 28, Corban 36
- Second-Chance Points: EOU 10, Corban 13
- Bench Points: EOU 16, Corban 24
- Largest Lead: EOU by 13 points in the second half
The Mountaineers return to action next Friday when they travel to Olympia, Washington, to take on The Evergreen State College at 7:30 PM.
