Gilbert, Ariz. – OUAZ Men's Basketball had the ball with a chance to tie or take the lead, but couldn't hit the shot at the buzzer, resulting in a 75-73 loss to Park Gilbert (4-9 OVR, 1-0 GSAC) in the conference play opener. Their fourth straight loss increases their longest losing streak of the season, and puts the Spirit at 7-8 on the year, with an 0-1 record in conference play.
The Spirit's offense had a solid day with a 44.4% shooting percentage from the field, and a 33.3% shooting percentage from the three-point line, and did a good job limiting the turnovers to just ten. The Buccaneers had a good day shooting as well, with a 44.3% shooting percentage from the field and a 40.7% shooting percentage from three. The Spirit had made more shots than the Buccaneers, but Park-Gilbert's 11/27 shooting from three was just enough to hold off the Spirit.
Three Spirit players finished with double-digit points, led by Jack Galiardi, who had 18pts, five rebounds, and three assists on 64.3% shooting. Zeke Viuhkola had a solid day in the effort with 16pts, and eight rebounds. OUAZ also got contributions from CJ Reed, who had a line of 13pts, one assist, and six rebounds, with Hunter Richardson adding 9pts, two steals, and four rebounds on the afternoon.
OUAZ will return home to face Embry Riddle on Wednesday, January 8th at 7:30PM (MST), before finishing on the road against The Master's on Saturday, January 11th at 3:00PM (MST).
