Our Bisons stormed into Calgary as underdogs and emerged victorious, spoiling the night for the Dinos and a crowd of over 2,000 fans.
The Bisons controlled much of the game, holding a 10-point lead for most of the way, including a 41-29 halftime advantage. However, the Dinos mounted a fierce comeback, cutting the lead to just one point with 1:30 left on the clock.
During that stretch, the Herd struggled offensively but displayed remarkable resilience when it mattered most, scoring the final seven points to ice the game.
“We struggled to score, but Cieran and Daren came up with three huge offensive rebounds in the last minute, and Brandt Lenz made a game-sealing three! On the final possession, we trapped Petrone at half court, got a steal, and ended the game with a dunk!” – Coach Schepp
Daren Watts (pictured above) delivered one of his best performances of the season, leading all scorers with 28 points.
Meanwhile, Mason Kraus put on a defensive clinic, holding Nate Petrone—a likely “Player of the Year” contender—to just 5-for-13 shooting. Petrone entered the game averaging 25 points per game on an impressive 50% shooting from beyond the arc, 60% from the field, and 90% from the free-throw line.
“Mason Kraus put on a masterclass in defense,” Coach Schepp added.
Statistically, the teams were evenly matched in most categories, but the Bisons had the edge in shooting percentage, hitting 44% of their shots compared to Calgary’s 37%.
This hard-fought victory improves Manitoba’s record to 10-1, while the Dinos slide to 8-3. The teams will face off again tonight in an important rematch.
Go Bisons!
Read the full story here:
Bisons clamp down to steal weekend opener - University of Calgary Athletics
Bisons Top performers:
Mason Kraus:
22 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists, 5 steals, 2 blocks
Daren Watts:
28 points, 11 rebounds, 4 assists
Brandt Lenz:
11 points, 4 rebounds, 2 steals
Tito Obasoto:
11 points, 2 assists, 1 steal
Cieran O’Hara:
12 rebounds, 1 assist
Box Score:
Canada West
