The Grand Canyon University Lopes just made a splash in the Mountain West Conference by defeating No. 23 Utah State 84-74 in a thrilling basketball game at the Global Credit Union Arena. The atmosphere was electric, with fans storming the court after the victory. One sign held high read, “Rankings come here to die,” capturing the spirit of the Lopes.
GCU’s performance was fueled by standout plays from players like Nana Owusu-Anane, who hustled for four steals and controlled the paint with impressive energy. Redshirt freshman Dennis Evans made a huge impact, blocking six shots and altering even more. Utah State, which had been ranked second in the nation for field goal percentage, struggled to find its rhythm, finishing with just 36.2% shooting.
Both Brian Moore Jr. and Makaih Williams scored 20 points, helping the Lopes maintain the lead after initial struggles. Moore highlighted his determination, crediting a recent personal revelation for his strong performance. He emphasized teamwork and setting the tone on both ends of the court.
Despite a fierce challenge from the Aggies, the Lopes kept their composure. Utah State managed to cut the lead to just five points late in the game, but Owusu-Anane’s critical steal turned the tide. GCU’s defense held strong against the Aggies’ full-court pressure, showcasing smart plays and unyielding discipline.
Coach Drew praised the team for their focus and resilience, especially given the emotional rollercoaster leading up to this game. The Lopes are only the second team to shoot over 50% against Utah State this season, capitalizing on their size and depth effectively.
Evans’ emergence as a key player is particularly noteworthy. In just his fourth game with significant minutes, he made an impact on both offense and defense. His coach believes that if he can keep performing at this level, he will change the team’s dynamic significantly.
After a tough loss to New Mexico just days before, this win was a testament to GCU’s ability to bounce back. They put five players in double digits and maintained solid ball control, committing only 11 turnovers against a team known for forcing mistakes.
Utah State Coach Jerrod Calhoun acknowledged the Lopes’ size and how it affected his team. His players faced a tough challenge, with GCU’s defensive prowess shining through.
GCU is not just about the players; the support from fans and the community plays a vital role in their success. The Lopes’ victory is not only a highlight for the team but also for everyone connected to GCU. Now, with this momentum, they look ahead to their next game against San Diego State—another chance to prove themselves on a bigger stage.
As competition heats up, watch for how the Lopes continue to grow and surprise in this exhilarating college basketball season.
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