MEMPHIS, Tenn. – In a nail-biting finish at Canale Arena, Christian Brothers University men's basketball (6-6, 2-4 GSC) edged out West Alabama (8-5, 4-3 GSC) by a final score of 63-61 on Thursday night. The game was defined by its intensity, featuring 11 lead changes and 13 ties, culminating in a dramatic buzzer-beater by Allen Hughes.
First Half Highlights
Christian Brothers took an early advantage in the first half, largely propelled by strong defensive play and fast breaks. The team held a 28-24 lead at halftime, with Iman Kheirati and Allen Hughes anchoring the scoring. Kheirati contributed crucial rebounds and scored efficiently in the paint, while Hughes showcased his mid-range shooting prowess.
The Bucs shot 42.9 percent from the field in the first half, including 40.0 percent from beyond the arc. Their transition game stood out, accounting for nine fast-break points. The team also effectively capitalized on West Alabama's turnovers, scoring 12 points.
Christian Brothers' Early Momentum
CBU went on a 10-4 run, sparked by
Allen Hughes and
Kyler Mann's efficient shooting. This stretch included crucial rebounds from
Iman Kheirati and strong defense, helping CBU build a seven-point lead (23-16).
West Alabama Responds Late
The Tigers countered with a 6-0 run led by Thaddeus Williams, narrowing the deficit to 28-24 at halftime. Their defensive adjustments disrupted CBU's rhythm in the closing minutes of the half.
Second Half: Momentum Shifts
West Alabama came out strong in the second half, leveraging their dominance in the paint with players like Rasean Frederick and Thaddeus Williams leading the charge. They outscored Christian Brothers 37-35 in the period, narrowing the deficit and keeping the game within reach.
Despite the pressure, Christian Brothers displayed resilience. Their outside shooting, spearheaded by Tane Kirisome and Iman Kheirati, kept the team afloat. Kirisome hit two critical three-pointers, finishing with 11 points. Kheirati recorded a double-double with 15 points and 13 rebounds, asserting his presence on both ends of the court.
Christian Brothers' Sharp Start
CBU opened the second half with a 7-2 run, led by a three-pointer from
Iman Kheirati and an assist from
Tane Kirisome. This pushed their lead to eight points (31-24), their largest of the second half.
West Alabama's Mid-Half Surge
UWA orchestrated an 8-0 run, fueled by Rasean Frederick's dominance in the paint and Thaddeus Williams' scoring. This effort tied the game at 41-41, erasing CBU's earlier advantage.
CBU's Closing Push
In the final minutes, CBU closed the game with a 5-2 spurt capped by
Allen Hughes' game-winning floater as the clock expired. Hughes also hit a clutch three-pointer earlier, turning a tie into a pivotal lead before the Tigers leveled the score at 61-apiece.
Statistical Standouts
- Christian Brothers:
- West Alabama:
- Rasean Frederick: 15 points, 10 rebounds.
- Thaddeus Williams: 18 points, 5 rebounds.
Team Comparisons
- Shooting:
- CBU: 45.3% FG, 55.6% 3P, 55.6% FT.
- UWA: 40.3% FG, 31.3% 3P, 54.5% FT.
- Rebounds: CBU 37, UWA 34.
- Turnovers: CBU 11, UWA 11.
Summary
Christian Brothers demonstrated poise under pressure and leveraged balanced scoring to overcome a tough opponent. Their ability to execute in the clutch, combined with key contributions from Hughes and Kheirati, secured a thrilling victory. As the season progresses, this performance could serve as a pivotal momentum builder for CBU.
