Western Washington University men’s basketball used a strong second half to defeat Daeman University, 83-72, in its first regular season game of the season on Friday, Nov. 3 at the Langley Events Centre in Langley, British Columbia.
The Vikings (1-0) entered halftime leading by just one before outscoring Daeman (0-1) by 10 in the second half, 43-33, to secure the win. It was the first of three games in as many days to begin the season for Western at the DII Canadian Tip-Off Classic tournament.
Western Washington University’s BJ Kolly posts up a Daeman defender. (Photo courtesy of Jeff Evans/WWU Athletics) Sophomore forward BJ Kolly led Western with 20 points on 9-of-9 shooting, adding six rebounds and three blocks. Twelve of Kolly’s points came in the second half.
Three other Vikings scored double-digit points: Junior guard Will Wilson (16), senior forward Jonathan Ned (13) and junior guard Kai Johnson (12). Each also finished with at least five rebounds.
Western Washington University’s Kai Johnson euro steps past a Daemen defender. (Photo courtesy of Jeff Evans/WWU Athletics) Western made 20-of-26 free throws (77%) while Daeman struggled at the line, making just 9 of 17 attempts (53%).
Next up for Western is a game against St. Edwards University (1-0) at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 4. The Vikings’ final game of the season-opening, non-league tournament will be against the University of Hawaii at Hilo (1-0) at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 5.
