A Fresh Breath of Air as Warriors Get the Win

The Westcliff men's basketball team was trying to get out of their current funk that had them losing their last six games.

Their last three losses have come down to the wire and been heartbreaking losses that overshadowed strong efforts from the players. 

On Thursday evening it took a whole team effort for 40 minutes in order for the Warriors to get a much-needed win against Simpson University, 82-72.

The intensity and frustration from the Warriors could be felt because they knew their current record doesn't reflect how good they can be.

They dove for the loose balls and crashed the boards. It was a Warriors team that was hungry for the win.

And in a game that can be won by the smallest of margins, the extra effort from each individual goes a long way.

Olisa Ngonadi scored 11 points and was massive on the boards, with 17 rebounds.

One of the game's highlight plays was an emphatic dunk by Ngonadi which had everyone in attendance on their feet and shifted the momentum for Westcliff.

Cap Uzan had a game-high 19 points, with four rebounds, and two assists.

Micaiah Hankins followed with 18 points and three rebounds.

Abdul Abdullah contributed 13 points and his vocal leadership was pivotal in getting his team to stay locked on throughout the game.

This win was a much-needed breath of fresh air for the Westcliff Warriors whose remaining schedule features only conference teams.

It will be an uphill battle because this year's teams are all very competitive.

But it is early enough in the season for the Warriors who will try to build off this great win as they suit up to play UC Merced next.

There will be little time to enjoy and reflect because on Friday they will host the Bobcats.

UC Merced is third in the California Pacific Conference, with a record of 3-1 having lost their most recent game.

Friday will be a doubleheader for Westcliff University as both men's and women's basketball are in action.

Men's basketball will be the second game of the night, tip off at 7:30 PM.