The Concordia men's basketball team fended off a furious rally by the host University of Hawaii Hilo Vulcans on Friday night and hung on for a 72-66 victory.

CUI moved to 5-4 on the year and 2-1 in PacWest play by finishing its three-game road trip out in Hawai'i with its second win of the week.

The Eagles led by double digits with a handful of minutes to play but the Vulcans navigated their way back to within 68-66 with just 20 seconds left.

After hitting a layup in traffic down the stretch while getting fouled, senior Kayle Knuckles converted three free throws in the final 20 seconds to help CUI secure the win. It was an important closeout for the Eagles who defeated HPU on Monday and then on Friday broke through against a team that had been receiving votes in the D2SIDA West Regional rankings.

Kobe Sanders, freshman, said, “We just knew if we came into the season opener with a lot of energy and effort we would give our chance to win.” He added, “The best part is just have fun, play as hard as you can.” 

Point guard freshman Cristian Butler said, “My team prepared for the PacWest opener by really getting after it at practice when we were in Hawaii and watching a lot of film of the other team. When it was game time, we knew everything the other team was trying to do.” He added, “The best part about competing is when everybody on the team is locked in on trying to win, but also when everyone does the little things that don’t show up on the states, such as taking charges, causing turnovers, and even boxing out so one of your teammates can get the rebound.” 

The men's play at home on Mon, Dec., 20 versus Dominican at 3:30 p.m. and admission to the game is free. Staying on or around campus during holiday break? Come to the game and cheer on the men’s basketball team! 

Tags: Alexander Carr, team, Men's Athletics

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