TWO-HALF TALE

By Brandon Petersen

The Westcliff men's basketball team went toe-to-toe with nationally-ranked NCAA Division II power Point Loma on Friday, falling 85–71 in an exhibition at Golden Gym.

After a sluggish start that saw the Warriors trail by 14 at halftime, Westcliff stormed back to pull within four midway through the second half before the Sea Lions closed the game on a steady run.

Head coach Jerred Cook said the game reflected his team's growth against elite competition.

"All of our Division II opponents scheduled us as exhibitions or scrimmages this year, and I think that speaks volumes of what they think of our program and competition," Cook said. "We had plenty of opportunities to win the game, being within four with about seven minutes to go."

The Warriors assisted on 15 of their 21 field goals while committing only six turnovers — a mark Cook called "a positive." Westcliff forced 21 Point Loma turnovers but couldn't overcome the size gap on the glass, getting out-rebounded 61–25.

"Playing a team like this and losing the size matchup requires our student-athletes to play with leverage, and we didn't do that," Cook said. "Still, we're taking steps in the right direction."

Lorenzo Marsh led Westcliff with 20 points, while Micaiah Hankins added 17 and D'montay Warner posted 12 points and eight rebounds.

Cook emphasized that the early-season exhibitions are designed for growth, not just results.

"Point Loma is ranked seventh or eighth in the country, and we also played Cal State Dominguez Hills, who's in the top 20," he said. "We play these games to learn and get better. We're taking steps in the right direction."

Up next for the Warriors (0-2) will be Nelson University of Arizona, Nov. 17 at Rio Hondo College.

Tip is scheduled for 8 p.m.