No. 60

By Brandon Petersen

In his fifth season at the helm, and already a two-time Cal Pac champion in the last four years, Westcliff men's basketball head coach Jerred Cook hit another milestone Monday night: Career win No. 60.

And the Warriors accomplished the feat with a solid victory.  

Behind a blistering second-half surge and four players in double figures, Westcliff shook off a one-point halftime deficit and defeated Nelson University–Arizona, 96–86, at Rio Hondo College in Whittier.

The Warriors shot 67 percent from the field, poured in 55 points after the break, and improved to 2–1 on the season.

Cook called the night a reflection of progress.

"Proud of the growth of our team as we got better during our much-needed practice after our recent loss," Cook said. "We went back to the drawing board and fine-tuned important principles."

Lorenzo Marsh was flawless, going 9-for-9 from the field and 5-for-5 from three to finish with 24 points despite playing less than five minutes in the first half due to foul trouble.

D'Montay Warner added 21 points on 9-for-11 shooting, while Jeramiah Paulino scored 16 and Christopher Sanders chipped in 14 off the bench.

The Warriors assisted on 20 of their 35 made field goals and used balanced scoring to pull away.

"Tonight we were able to have four guys in double figures, which makes us extremely hard to guard," Cook said.

Westcliff's only trouble spot came at the free-throw line, where they shot just 18-for-31, and with ball security — 16 turnovers kept Nelson within reach.

"To fully reach our potential we need to lower our turnovers, convert at the free throw line, and become fully invested playing defense all the way until we secure the rebound," Cook said.

Even so, the performance showcased the high-efficiency offense that has defined much of Cook's tenure. Westcliff outscored Nelson 55–44 in the second half and limited the visitors to 43.7 percent shooting overall.

Cook also took a moment to reflect on the program's momentum and the people around him.

"When we play our brand of basketball, we truly give ourselves the best opportunity to win," he said.

"Special recognition to anyone that has supported the growth and rise of our MBB program. I wouldn't be as successful if it wasn't for the great people that have impacted our program. I'm truly grateful — shoutout to all of my coaches, managers, GAs, trainers, support staff, SID, and AD staff that helped support along the way."

Westcliff returns to action at Life Pacific Saturday, Nov. 29^th at 6 p.m.