Mariners Back On Top

The VIU Mariners are back on top of the PACWEST after an exciting 81-78 victory over the third seeded Capilano Blues on Saturday night. 

The Mariners used a balanced offence that shot 40.3% in the game led by Tori Odom’s 24 points and Cameron Gay’s 16.  Richard Henderson was great on both sides of the ball dropping 10 points and 10 rebounds and veteran Brett Christensen nailed three-three pointers in the second half at critical times from the corner to preserve the Mariners lead.  It’s the seventh time they capture the PACWEST gold.

Next up for the Mariners is the CCAA national championship in Toronto at the end of March and they will be ranked the top team.

Meanwhile the Blues will join the Mariners at the nationals despite losing on Saturday.  They shot 35.6% from the field and Martin Bogajev tallied a game high 27 points and just missed a game tying three pointer at the buzzer.  Brendan Bailey was solid on both ends of the court and finished with 16 points.  They will be a wildcard at the nationals as they collect their third Conference silver medal.

Following the game the All-Stars and MVP were announced:

Royce Sargeant – Langara Falcons
Brendan Bailey – Capilano Blues
Martin Bogajev – Capilano Blues
Akoi Yuot – VIU Mariners
Tori Odom – VIU Mariners

MVP – Camerson Gay – VIU Mariners

Players of the Game:

Mariners – Tori Odom
Blues – Brendan Bailey