dominant weekend for grizzlies' basketball

The Grizzlies continued their outstanding start of the season by having an amazing weekend defeating Northeastern Oklahoma A&M Norsemen (85-82) and Allen County Red Devils in Arkansas City (91-84) on Friday, Nov. 8 and Saturday, Nov. 9. 

The game opposing Northeastern Oklahoma A&M, was very hard for the Grizzlies. In the first half, the Grizzlies scored the first few points, but the Norsemen rapidly got back in the game and took the lead. The Grizzlies missed a few lay-ups and contested three-pointers. The Norsemen never lost the lead once they took it, as they continued playing as a team showing dominance and maintaining a little distance on the scoreboard. The first half ended 35-31 in favor of the Norsemen.  

The second half was another story as the Grizzlies came out playing hard; a real change in intensity contributed to them taking the lead four minutes into the second half, with a three-pointer by sophomore guard Bubba Leavell. Both teams continued to fight, taking turns scoring and missing. Freshman center Emeka Opurum scored a jump shot with seven minutes left, making the score 66-70. The Norsemen got within one point one more time in the game, 82-83, with seven seconds left and intentionally fouled, but sophomore guard Russell Branch made both free throws securing the win 82-85.  

The second game was better for the Grizzlies, as they displayed dominance and would lead throughout the game. The first half redshirt freshman forward AJ Pierre-Jerome  made the first shot of the game. The Red Devils made a couple of shots and took the lead, which would be their only lead of the game. The Grizzlies intensified their efforts and would close out the first half in commanding fashion 48-34.  

Allen County's Mike Smith came out the second half and made a lay-up, which gave his teammates hope. The Grizzlies were not fazed by this, and they continued to play hard and maintained their comfortable lead until the final whistle. This game allowed the Grizzlies to play freely and display the talent they have on their roster. The men's basketball team won this game, 91-84.  

The Grizzlies next game will be at the Power Plant on Wednesday, Nov. 20 at 6 p.m. opposing Northern Oklahoma -Tonkawa. They are looking to maintain that five game win streak.