Chandler, Ariz. – OUAZ Men's Basketball boosts their winning streak to three after defeating Montana Western (7-3), 80-71 in their first game of the 2024 Cactus Classic. The victory puts the Spirit at 7-4 on the year.
The Spirit's offense had a solid day with a 50.8% shooting percentage from the field, and a 43.8% shooting percentage from the three-point line. The Spirit dominated Montana Western in the paint, outscoring them 22-12, and had a huge advantage in bench production, outscoring the Bulldogs 22-8. The Spirit also did a great job holding onto the rock as they only allowed seven turnovers, while forcing Western Montana into 13.
Four Spirit players finished with double-digit points, led by Zeke Viuhkola's 25-point performance on an 77% shooting percentage, including shooting 67% from the three-point line, while also adding seven rebounds, and a block to his total. Jack Galiardi had a solid day in the winning effort with 16pts and four rebounds. OUAZ also got contributions from Quinn Thorne, who had a line of (11pts, one steal, and one rebound), with CJ Reed adding (10pts, two steals, three rebounds, and two assists) on the night.
The Spirit will finish their week with their final game in the 2024 Cactus Classic at Chandler-Gilbert CC, where they will play Rocky Mountain (5-1) on Saturday, December 14th at 2 PM MST.
