LONDON, ON -
The Mustangs got out of the gates quickly, with Noah Otshudi getting back on the scoresheet less than 5 seconds into the game. Western quickly built a 13-4 lead. The Lancers fought back, as the game was tied up at 26 after the first quarter. Otshudi was back in the starting lineup for the Mustangs and led with 7 points and 3 assists after 10 minutes.
The Mustangs kept up the intensity in the second quarter. They made five of their 10 three-point attempts and shot 62% from the field, keeping them on top of the Lancers. Otshudi picked up where he left off, finishing the half with 15 points. They led at the half 48-41.
Both teams went back and forth throughout the quarter, setting up a big finish at Alumni Hall. Windsor led heading into the final frame 63-62.
The Mustangs rallied in the fourth quarter, fighting tooth and nail for every rebound and possession. Mikyle Malabuyoc found tough ways to score around the basket, second on the team with 14 points only to Otshudi. After missing the first game against Windsor, he was reinserted into the starting five and had a game-high 27 points. Western held on and closed out a nail-biter taking it 81-77.
"We made a lot of mistakes today, but overall we just played hard throughout the game and at the end we just kept getting to the line and ultimately got to win", said Otshudi.
The Mustangs are gearing up for their playoff run, trying to sort out a few things in preparation. "We gotta keep getting better at practice, just fix everything up, all those little mistakes which could cost us in the playoffs. Minimizing them and staying together should take us far in the playoffs", said Malabuyoc. He shared out a team-high 8 assists in addition to his 14 points.
Western is back in action at home against the Warriors at 8PM EST on Friday, February 14th. Tune in on OUA.tv.
KEY STATS
G | Noah Otshudi - 27 PTS (8-16 FG, 2-4 3PT), 4 REBS
G | Mikyle Malabuyoc - 14 PTS, 8 ASTS, 3 STLS
F | Lucas Sheets - 12 PTS, 7 REBS, 2 ASTS
F | Matteo Zagar - 11 PTS, 8 REBS, 3 ASTS
