CRC Hawks (3-4) vs. #29 Los Medanos (4-2)
@ Mendocino College
Ukiah, Calif – Cosumnes River (3-4) faced off against #29 Los Medanos (4-2) on the final day of the John Hogue Memorial Classic at Mendocino College. Despite a strong defensive second half by CRC and almost a near triple-double by sophomore guard Brandon Gray with 21 points, 9 assists, and 7 rebounds, the Hawks lost the game 85-77.
First half was under par for the Hawks with untimely turnovers, missed free-throws, and lowly defense. Assistant Coach Mat Bradley felt "our lack of offensive success was effecting our defensive intensity and LMC made us pay for it. We can never let our commitment to defensive pressure be effected by our offensive production. Defense will always be key to short- and long-term success." The Hawks shots were not falling and it effected their play throughout the first frame.
In the second half, CRC really stepped up their ball pressure and disrupted the LMC offense. They scored two quick baskets to force an LMC timeout. The Hawks used another 9-2 run to get LMC to burn another timeout to stop the bleeding. With the score 53-45 with 14:34 remaining, the Hawks kept battling. The Hawks defensive intensity was dictating their offensive output.
Later in the game, CRC got to within five at 58-53 with 12:15 remaining on a drive-and-kick assist from guard Terrell Garner to Gray for a 3pt shot. The game remained within reach, but the Hawks continued to play from behind. The first half deficit was too much for the comeback. The Hawks dropped this one 85-77.
Next up, the Hawks host the 41st annual James Clark Classic at CRC. First round matchups begin Thursday, December 5th. CRC will face College of the Siskiyous at 6:00pm.