KELOWNA, B.C. — UBCO dropped a tough one to the University of British Columbia Thunderbirds, with a final score of 79-64 at the UBCO Gymnasium on Saturday night. This marks the Heat's ninth loss of the season. Despite the setback, the Heat's defence shone, tallying 12 steals and 6 blocks, demonstrating grit on that end of the court.

The Heat, who were wearing their throwback Lakers jersey's, honouring the team's past from their days as Okanagan University College, were led by Fifth-year senior Jalen Shirley who had 20 points, adding four rebounds, five assists, and three steals. Isaak Moore put up 19 points, sinking five 3-pointers and chipped in with five rebounds.

Edouard Gauthier topped the scoring charts for UBC with 20 points, hitting 8 of 12 from the field. Nylan Roberts added 18 points, connecting on 7 of 12 field goal attempts, and secured 10 rebounds for the double-double.

In the first quarter, UBC jumped out to a notable nine-point lead at the 2:44 mark, buoyed by perfect free throw shooting and capitalizing on turnovers. UBCO responded with a robust defensive effort, recording six steals and three blocks, which helped narrow the gap. Despite shooting 39 percent, the Heat trailed after 10 minutes 21-18.

UBCO faced a challenging second quarter as the Thunderbirds built a 10-point lead midway through, powered by effective scoring in the paint and a strong defensive presence. UBC capitalized on UBCO's eight turnovers, turning them into transition chances, and outscored the home side 16-12 in the frame. As the buzzer sounded, the Thunderbirds led 37-30.

UBC outscored UBCO 18-17 in the third, boosted by a strong bench contribution of 12 points. UBCO's efforts were bolstered by Moore's key offensive rebounds, creating second-chance opportunities and contributing to the Heat's 14 total rebounds. Despite both teams committing four turnovers, UBCO's three 3-pointers kept the quarter competitive. As the quarter came to a close, UBC led 55-47.

In the final frame, the Thunderbirds surged ahead with a 24-17 scoring advantage, capitalizing on a 9-for-17 shooting performance and a 10-7 rebounding edge. The Heat struggled with turnovers, committing four, which UBC converted into key points. Despite UBCO's effort in the paint, scoring eight points, UBC's balanced attack, including 14 points in the paint and two 3-pointers, maintained their lead. At the final buzzer, the score stood at 79-64 for UBC.

Next up, the Heat will host the Thunderbirds again on Saturday, Nov. 29. Tip-off is set for 4:30 p.m. at the UBCO Gymnasium. Tickets for the game can be purchased at GoHeat.ca/Tickets and fans can also catch the action live on CBC Gem and CBCSports.ca.

Game Notes:
- Mathias Schertzer recorded a career-high total of 10 rebounds.