LONDON, ON -
On Saturday night at Alumni Hall, the Mustangs took on the TMU Bold in the Ontario University Athletics' (OUA) Quarterfinal. After finishing first in the OUA West Division, Western received a first round bye, while the Bold took on the Guelph Gryphons in their first round matchup. TMU went on to win 89-63.
In the first quarter, both teams went back and forth. Lucas Sheets opened the scoring for the Mustangs, cutting under the basket for a layup. It was a gritty quarter for both teams, and defense proved to be a major component. After the first 10 minutes, Western led 23-20 courtesy of a three at the buzzer by Imran Armstrong.
TMU went on a run late in the second quarter, building a lead by as much as 13-points. In a game of margins, the Mustangs' brief collapse led to a Bold takeover allowing them to gain momentum in the game. Kennedy Charles led the Mustangs at the half with 8 points and 3 rebounds. TMU led at the half 46-32, holding Western's offense to just 9 points in the frame.
TMU came out and capitalized on their momentum at the half. They extended their lead to as much as 23 points. Western's offense fought back but the Bold maintained their lead, heading into the final frame up 19, 73-54.
The Mustangs got quiet and the Bold increased their lead to 26 with less than four minutes on the clock. TMU won the game 101-78, and advanced to the semi-finals against the Ottawa Gee-Gees.
Western's season highlights one of grit and adaptation, as the team was plagued with injuries throughout. Everyone on the roster put their hand up when the team was in need and stepped up to fill roles and adjust to new ones. Although this may not have been the result the team was looking for, this young team will be back stronger and better next season. We are always purple and proud of our Western men's basketball team.
KEY STATS
F | Matteo ZAGAR - 14 PTS, 3 REBS, 3 ASTS, 2 STLS
G | Imran ARMSTRONG - 14 PTS, 3 REBS, 3 ASTS
G | Mikyle MALABUYOC - 11 PTS, 5 REBS, 2 ASTS, 3 STLS
