Warriors Open GSAC Play With Gritty Win Over Vanguard
San Dimas, CA - The Warriors kicked off their conference play in the GSAC with a matchup tonight against Vanguard University. The Lions entered the game with a 2-0 record on the season, and were picked 6th in the GSAC Preseason Rankings. In a matchup that would end up coming down to the wire, the Warriors were able to take the close contest by a final score of 64-61. With the win, the Warriors extend their win-streak to 7, as they start their historic season with a 7-0 start and 1-0 in the GSAC.
In this game, the Lions from Vanguard got off to a hot start from the field, taking an early 8-0 lead. The Warriors were able to respond though, holding the Lions to 13 points in the next 14 minutes. Vanguard held a narrow lead entering the half by a score of 33-31. The second half was a back and forth contest, that ultimately came down to the Warrior's execution at the free-throw line late in the game. LPU was able to hold on and secure the victory, on the back of an outstanding performance by Austin Cook and Kyler Villarreal. Cook led the way for the Warriors with 20 points and 11 rebounds. Villarreal flirted with a triple double, finishing with 16 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists. Albert Matute gave the Warriors a spark off the bench on the scoring front, as he scored 10 points all in the first half of the game.
When reflecting on the team's victory, Coach Tim Cook stated, "When you think about a league game so early in November, you don't want the result of that game to define your season. It is such a testament to our guys and the growth that we have experienced as a program, as we are constantly learning and growing as a team. These upperclassmen have worked so hard during their time here at LPU, and now they are finally receiving the respect that they deserve. Tonight's game was such tough, physical, gritty game, and I cannot be more proud of our guys for taking the punches that Vanguard threw in the game and the runs they went on. They are such an awesome program and I have the utmost respect for them, so with us persevering tonight, is a testament to the work our guys have put in."
Impactful Warrior Performances
- 20 points
- 11 rebounds
- 16 points
- 8 rebounds
- 7 assists
- 2 steals
- 10 points (off bench)
NEXT GAME:
- November 21st @ UC Irvine | 7pm
- Irvine, CA