Warriors Rally for First Win of the Season Over Providence (MT)

San Dimas, Calif — The Life Pacific University Men's Basketball team opened its season with a gritty 69–66 comeback victory over the University of Providence (Montana) on Thursday night inside Mehl Court. The win marked the first career victory for Head Coach Evan Jenkins, as the Warriors overcame a 14-point first-half deficit with strong second-half defense and balanced scoring from five players in double figures.

After trailing 38–26 at halftime, the Warriors erupted for a 43-point second half, shooting 50% from the field and holding the Argos to just 33% after the break. The defensive energy shifted the momentum, fueled by key stops and timely steals down the stretch.

Leading the charge offensively, Xerian Anderson delivered a steady all-around performance with 13 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 blocks, including the game-sealing free throws with six seconds left. Josh Hardeman knocked down four three-pointers to finish with 12 points, while Desmond Every came off the bench to score 11, hitting a pair of threes that sparked the comeback. Kyjuan Cannady and Jayceon Smith each added 10 points, with Cannady stuffing the stat sheet for 7 assists, 7 rebounds, and 2 steals

Defensively, the Warriors locked in when it mattered most—forcing 10 turnovers and registering 8 steals and 8 blocks on the night. Smith's relentless rebounding and Anderson's late-game rim protection helped the Warriors limit Providence to 12.5% from beyond the arc.

The win gives Life Pacific (1–0) early season momentum heading into its upcoming non-conference slate, where the Warriors will look to build on their defensive identity and team depth under Coach Jenkins' leadership.

Stat Highlights

• �� Five in double figures: Anderson (13), Hardeman (12), Every (11), Cannady (10), Smith (10)

• �� 2nd-Half Shooting: 50% FG, 45.5% from 3

• �� Cannady: 10 pts, 7 reb, 7 ast, 2 stl

• �� Team Defense: 8 blocks, 8 steals

• �� Coach Jenkins: First collegiate win as Head Coach