Fort Lewis College men’s basketball played Western State Colorado University on Friday, and came out with a 72-63 win.

After two losses at home last weekend, the Skyhawks came back ready to play, resulting in a big win over the Western Colorado University Mountaineers. FLC capitalized on big plays throughout the game, allowing them to come out on top 72-63.

Coming into Friday’s game both teams were desperate for their next win. The 3-12 Mountaineers were coming off of two loses on the road, and the 7-8 Skyhawks were coming off of two loses at home.

“We really wanted to protect home court,” says FLC senior forward Otas Iyekekpolor. “So we practiced hard all week, we made sure to execute the game plan, follow the coaches and really bring some energy.”

Otas Iyekekpolor on a breakaway in second half. Photo by Nate DeCremer

The Skyhawks had a slow start in the first half of the game, but with several big plays both on offense and defense, the Skyhawks quickly shifted the momentum. By halftime the Skyhawks had taken a 35 to 34 lead.

“Offensively we knew we were playing very well, but defensively we had missed some assignments so we had to tighten things up,” said Iyekekpolor.

After halftime the Mountaineers again took a small, quick lead followed by the Skyhawks regaining control of the court. In the second half FLC outscored Mountaineers 37-29 bringing the final score to 72-63 Skyhawks.

Senior power forward Maquel Beasley led the Skyhawks with 22 points. Iyekekpolor scored 18, and senior guard Alex Semadeni scored 10, leading the Skyhawks to victory.

Alex Semadeni (FLC) charging past Brady Subart (WCU). Photo by Nate DeCremer

FLC will play at home again Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. against Colorado Mesa. The team will look to use the momentum gained by this win to hopefully add another win to their now 8-8 record.

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