Emilee Arnold

Fifth-year senior guard Jalen Jackson locks eyes on the goal during the November 19 game at E.A. Diddle Arena.

WKU Men’s Basketball played the Canisius Golden Griffins in their second match of the Northern Classic at Place Ball Arena in Laval, Quebec, where they came up short 85-77.

Junior guard Don McHenry had another big game, posting 16 points.  It was his fourth consecutive game with double digit points.  Fifth year forward Rodney Howard had 15 points and six rebounds and junior Babacar Faye had 15 points and ten rebounds, giving him a double-double.

Canisius overcame a horrible first-half shooting performance to come back and beat WKU.  The Hilltoppers also had a slow shooting performance, making only two threes.  The defense opened the game playing well, but Canisius outlasted the Hilltoppers to grab the win.  WKU will see a quick turnaround as the team returns to action on Sunday, Nov. 26 for the final day of tournament play at the Northern Classic facing UNC Asheville.

First Half:

Howard opened scoring for the game.  The game stayed close throughout the half, with the largest lead being six points for WKU.  The Hilltoppers jumped to a 30-19 lead before the Golden Griffins began to a 14-2 run.  WKU’s first-half woes came from beyond the arc, as they made one three in the half, (20%) despite shooting 47% from two. Despite the Canisius run, WKU led 37-33 to end the half.

Second Half:

WKU only made one more three in the second half, ending the game 2-10 from beyond the arc. The Hilltoppers shot 58% in the second half from two but were unable to overcome the Golden Griffins. Canisius took the lead with 15:22 remaining, and never looked back, claiming an 85-77 victory.