Grand Canyon University (GCU) showcased a powerful performance against Coastal Carolina, claiming a decisive victory at the Global Credit Union Arena. The Lopes (6-4) matched their early-season record from last year, dominating the Chanticleers (6-5) in almost every aspect of the game. They established a significant 31-point lead early in the second half, setting the tone for a confident finish before starting their inaugural Mountain West season against Wyoming next Saturday.
Makaih Williams was a standout player, scoring 16 points in just 21 minutes off the bench. His first half alone included 11 points, five rebounds, and three assists, helping GCU take a commanding 52-25 lead at halftime. Williams has been particularly impressive, dishing out 10 assists with just one turnover in his last two games, coming back into a sixth-man role to support the starting lineup.
A critical moment came during the first half when GCU surged ahead with a 17-2 run. During this stretch, Coastal Carolina struggled to score, making just one field goal in nearly six minutes. This stretch also exhibited GCU’s strong defense, highlighted by a blocked shot from graduate power forward Wilhelm Breidenbach and a steal from senior guard Jaden Henley.
One notable statistic from the game was GCU’s low turnover count; they committed only five, which is their best against a Division I opponent since a March 2024 victory over California Baptist. Impressively, every player contributed without committing multiple turnovers, emphasizing their disciplined play.
Looking ahead, the Lopes will face a challenging match against Wyoming, who currently hold an 8-2 record. This game is important as GCU begins its journey in the Mountain West, where every game counts toward their standing.
As collegiate basketball continues to grow in popularity, teams like GCU are gaining more attention. Recent surveys show that college sports viewership has increased, with many fans eager to follow their teams as they compete in new conferences. This adds an extra layer of excitement for both players and fans.
In conclusion, GCU’s performance marks a strong start as they head into a new chapter in the Mountain West. With players like Williams leading the way and a commitment to strong teamwork, the Lopes could have a promising season ahead.
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