Honolulu, HI- In a game between the second and third place teams in the Pac West, the Swords came out victorious, defeating Dixie State 75-65.
The Swords got out early leading 24-15 nine minutes into the first half. Dixie rallied back, making it a 43-40 Chaminade lead at the break.
Chaminade moved the ball well in the opening 20 minutes, as six players had two field goals in the first half. The Chaminade defense was impressive as well. Led by Joel Smith, the Swords held Dixie State's leading scorer, Ryan Sanchez, to 5 points on 1-10 shooting.
Darrell Birton led the way with 18 points, connecting on 4 three's. Joel Smith added 16 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists in the win. Mohamed Tangara added 12 points to go along with 9 rebounds.
Chaminade dominated the glass 42-24.
Bowie Jeffs led the Red Storm with 16 points.
Chaminade improves to 10-8 on the year, 6-3 in the Pac West conference. Dixie State moves to 11-9, 5-2 in Pac West play. The Swords are back in action at home vs. Grand Canyon on Feb. 7th. Game time is set for 7:30 PM HT in McCabe Gym.
