The Mountain West basketball scene is heating up. Grand Canyon University (GCU) just pulled off a stunning double victory. They first upset No. 23 Utah State, and then they edged out San Diego State, the conference leader, with a nail-biting score of 70-69.
On a packed Wednesday night at the Global Credit Union Arena, junior guard Makaih Williams sank a crucial free throw to tie the game, then hit another to take the lead with just 1.8 seconds left. This victory marks GCU as one of the few teams to defeat San Diego State in December or January, joining the ranks of No. 1 Arizona this season.
Now, GCU stands at 12-6 overall and 5-2 in the Mountain West, just a game behind San Diego State, which is 13-5, 7-1 in conference play. Six teams in the conference are tightly packed, all vying for top positions.
GCU demonstrated solid defense throughout the game, limiting San Diego State to 40.3% shooting. That defensive pressure allowed them to go on a 17-3 run, pushing their lead to as much as 61-49. Williams and senior guard Jaden Henley each scored 17 points, a testament to their offensive prowess.
Head coach Bryce Drew praised his team’s defensive effort, especially during a critical stretch where the Aztecs struggled to score. GCU reduced their turnovers significantly over the game, which helped maintain their lead. A slick play that involved a long pass from graduate forward Nana Owusu-Anane resulted in a powerful slam from Henley, keeping GCU ahead at a pivotal moment.
As the clock wound down, the Lopes faced pressure. After Williams made a free throw to put GCU up 68-63, they hit a scoring drought, with missed opportunities and one turnover. San Diego State capitalized and took a 69-68 lead late in the game. However, a crucial missed free throw from San Diego’s BJ Davis allowed GCU to regain possession.
Williams, calm under pressure, took the ball down the court and drew a foul. He then made both free throws, closing out a near-perfect night at the line (9-of-10).
San Diego State’s head coach Brian Dutcher acknowledged the heartbreak of the game, stating, “That’s basketball; it can be ecstasy or agony in a matter of seconds.”
GCU’s shooting average was lower than usual at 38%, but they excelled from beyond the arc and the free-throw line, hitting 10 of 21 three-pointers and 22 of 28 free throws. After a first half of ups and downs, GCU flipped the script, showing resilience and grit.
The Lopes’ defensive strategy effectively shut down key players for San Diego State, particularly their Preseason Player of the Year, Miles Byrd, who struggled with shooting, landing only two points on 10 attempts.
Looking ahead, GCU is poised to face Fresno State and Nevada on the road, riding a wave of confidence. All teams in the Mountain West are fighting for a strong position as the season progresses, with Utah State and Nevada also in the mix.
As Makaih Williams put it, they embody a “dawg mentality,” ready to take on anyone, anywhere. This competitive spirit could be pivotal as they navigate through the remainder of the season.
For those interested in the statistics and dynamics of college basketball, check out the NCAA’s official statistics for deeper insights: NCAA Statistics.
