EDMONTON - Adam Paige and Abdullah Shittu proved to be too much to handle as they both scored 18 points to lead the Golden Bears to an 89-71 victory over the UBC Okanagan Heat men's basketball team on Friday evening at the Saville Centre.
Jalen Shirley (Brampton, Ont.) was a bright spot for the Heat as he scored a team-high 20 points while adding five assists and four rebounds to his quality night. Shirley was able to get by his defender multiple times which led to easy buckets and plenty of free throws. Shirley finished the night a perfect 9-for-9 from the free throw line.
Hafith Moallin (Mississauga, Ont.) was stellar once again on defence as he recorded five steals and adding in nine points and three assists.
It was a balanced attack for the Golden Bears as Paige (Whiterock, B.C.) and Shittu (Edmonton) each had 18 points and Brandon Meiklejohn (Edmonton) poured in 17 points of his own.
TOP PERFORMERS
Jalen Shirley – UBCO
The second-year guard continues to be a consistent presence for the Heat offence as he scored 20-plus points in a game for the second time this season. Shirley continues to prove that he can get to his spots whenever he wants and open up opportunities for his teammates.
Adam Paige – Alberta
The fourth-year forward continues to be a dominant force for the Golden Bears. His 18 points was tied for the team lead but he also grabbed 11 rebounds to give his teammates more opportunities for open shots.
WHERE THEY SIT
The Heat drop to 4-7 and are still fighting for a chance at one of the final Canada West playoff spots. The Golden Bears improve to 5-4 as they get their first win of the New Year and sit tied for sixth in the conference.
UP NEXT
The Heat will finish off their fourth game in five days as they take on the Alberta Golden Bears once again at Saville Centre on Saturday, January 7. Tip-off is slated for 6 p.m. PT and can be seen on
Canada West TV.
