Box Score KELOWNA, B.C. - The UBC Okanagan Heat men's basketball team gave the UBC Thunderbirds all they could handle on Saturday afternoon at The Furnace but ultimately fell 97-75.
Pre-game, the Heat seniors, Dallas Hancox of Sylvan Lake, Atla., and Keaton Souster of Edmonton, were recognized for their time with the team and the impactful season they both had.
The Heat were slow to warm up, as shots were struggling to get through the iron, but their team defence kept them in the game as they were down by just six points at the half. Keaton Souster provided a big push, as the guard took a charge that led to a bucket for the Heat, getting the crowd on their feet. Putting up consistent numbers week after week, Kevin Hamlet of Scarborough Ont. was providing the team their offensive output throughout the game, finishing with a double-double, 21 points, and 11 rebounds.
The fifth-year senior Hancox provided a spark in the second half as the big man established his position in the paint and connected on multiple put-backs. Hancox finished the night with eight points and four rebounds.
The Thunderbirds were led by third-year product James Woods of Surrey, B.C. The efficient guard finished the night with 25 points and seven assists, going 11-of-20 from the field. Former Heat guard Triston Matthews of North Vancouver, B.C., also had a strong performance as he finished the night with 12 points.
UBCO fought hard all game leaving it out on the hardwood. The nationally-ranked Thunderbirds felt the intensity pick-up but kept their composure in the fourth, drawing out the lead and disabling the Heat from mounting a comeback.
The will now move on to their final game of the regular season as they will host the University of Victoria Vikes on Thursday night, February 24, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for the game will be available at the door on game day.
