KIRKLAND, Wash. – The Corban University men's basketball team played their second game in as many nights at Northwest University in Kirkland, Wash. After falling in a close-fought contest on Friday night, the Navy and Gold had a better night on Saturday. The Warriors' strong shooting in the battle was the difference in an 84-77 triumph. 

"Today was a game where we were able to put together a lot of the things that we have been working on," said head coach Taylor Kelly. "Our guys came out with great focus, great attention to detail, and amazing effort. It was a complete team effort where everyone contributed, and we were able to build a greater sense of the identity our team and program wants to continue to become."

The Corban offense shined in the effort, shooting 28-of-59 (47.5%) from the field. The Navy and Gold went to the charity stripe for 23 shots, and went an outstanding 20-of-23 (87%) from the line. The Warriors had four players score in double figures in Saturday's matchup. 

Top performer Taylor Anderson—just a sophomore—scored 21 points on eight made field goals. Three of Anderson's eight makes were from beyond the arc, where he went 3-of-6 in the contest. On the defensive end, Anderson racked up four steals in addition to his magnificent offensive performance.

Senior Mauricio Smith only took seven shots, but converted on five of his seven attempts, for a 13-point performance. He also tied for the team lead in rebounds, with seven on the night.

Warrior newcomer Kendall Moore also had an efficient night from the floor, as he made four of his seven shot attempts. His aggressive offensive efforts created six free throw attempts as well. He was able to make 5-of-6 from the stripe, contributing to what was a great night at the line for Corban. 

For the Eagles, Cesar Sandoval recorded a double-double, with 17 points and 12 rebounds in the effort. Cacoa Chatman (17 points) and Pa'Treon Lee (15 points) were each responsible for double-digit points in the game as well. 

The Eagles shot 44.4% from the field in the contest, but shot only 70.6% from the free-throw line. The 12 made free throws were eight less than the Warriors' 20 makes, which is a crucial amount considering the final score of 84-77 in favor of the Navy and Gold.

With the victory, Kelly earns the first victory of his career as the head man at Corban in just his second game at the helm.

Corban (1-1) hopes to learn of the new plans for the Cascade Collegiate Conference (CCC) slate to return to play in 2021 in the near future, after getting a taste of competition again in the gymnasium.

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