KELOWNA, B.C. — UBCO men's basketball guard Jalen Shirley moved to within 11 points of the Heat all-time scoring record on Friday night as his team dropped a narrow 91-85 decision to the UFV Cascades at the UBCO Gymnasium. 

Shirley, a native of Brampton, Ont., dropped 30 points in the contest, hitting 10 field goals, while also dishing out five assists and grabbing three rebounds. By scoring 30 points, he became just the third player in program history to score more than 30 points in a game on multiple occasions as the talented guard has now score 26 or more points in four of his last six contests.

The performance leaves him 1473 points in his career, 10 behind UBCO all-time leading scorer Aldrich Berrios at 1483 with one game remaining in his Heat career.

Shirley five assists also leave him five behind Hafith Moallin's team record of 343 for a career.

Joining Shirley in double figures on Friday night was Lamine Conde who delivered a strong performance with a double-double, tallying 17 points and 10 rebounds, complemented by four three-pointers.

For UFV, Bennett O'Connor shone with 21 points along with six assists and two steals. Ismael Hernandez added 24 points while also securing eight rebounds and three steals. 

UFV set the pace early in the first half, benefiting from a 60 percent shooting rate. UBCO struggled with a 30 percent conversion rate, despite forcing seven turnovers and recording six steals. Both squads capitalized on turnovers with seven points each, but the Cascades 12 points in the paint gave them a 21-17 lead at the end of the half.

In the second quarter, UFV widened their margin, outscoring UBCO 27-18, thanks to Hernandez's timely layups and a 3-pointer. UFV took advantage of turnovers, scoring five points off the Heat's four turnovers, and maintained a 13-7 rebounding edge, including five offensive boards. UBCO faced foul trouble, committing five, allowing UFV to sink five of seven free throws. At the half's conclusion, UFV led 48-35.

UBCO clawed back in the third quarter, outpacing UFV 25-20, fuelled by sharp shooting and seizing turnover opportunities. The Heat nailed three 3-pointers and sank six of eight free throws, while their defence forced seven turnovers and grabbed three steals. Despite trailing, UBCO's offensive surge was palpable, closing the quarter at 68-60.

In the final quarter, UBCO mounted a late rally, edging UFV 25-23. Shirley's offensive prowess was crucial, including a 3-pointer with 41 seconds remaining. UBCO capitalized on UFV's five turnovers, converting them into five points. However, the Heat's comeback attempt would fall just short on the night.

Next up, UBCO will take on the UFV Cascades again on Saturday, Feb. 7, with a 6:30 p.m. tip-off. 

Prior to warmup, the team will honour their two graduating seniors, including Shirley along with David Usuomon.

Tickets for the game can be purchased by visiting GoHeat.ca/Tickets.