Phoenix, AZ- In the Pac West Conference opener, Chaminade defeated the 'Lopes of Grand Canyon 71-62.
The Swords got out to an early lead and led at the break 36-28. Both teams shot the ball well in the opening half, with GCU shooting 48% from the floor and 43% from three, while Chaminade shot 41% from the floor and 46% from three.
Steven Bennett led the Swords, shooting 9-18 from the floor and 2-6 from three, scoring 30 points to lead all scorers. Dominique Cooks, Chandler Pearson and Shane Hanson also added two three's apiece in the win. Waly Coulibaly led the team with 7 rebounds.
Chandler Pearson had 11 points and Shane Hanson added 12 points, including clutch free throws to seal the victory. The Swords shot 24 for 28 from the line for 88 percent. The rebounding battle was tied at 31-31.
Justin Wesolowski had 14 points and 9 rebounds to lead Grand Canyon.
Chaminade improves to 4-6, 1-0 in the Pac West, while Grand Canyon moves to 6-11, 0-1 PacWest in defeat. The Swords face Dixie State on January 9th in Burns Arena in St. George, UT. Tip is set for 7:30 PM local time.
