Western Washington University men’s basketball used a strong second half to defeat Daeman University, 83-72, in its first regular season game of the season on Friday, Nov. 3 at the Langley Events Centre in Langley, British Columbia.
The Vikings (1-0) entered halftime leading by just one before outscoring Daeman (0-1) by 10 in the second half, 43-33, to secure the win. It was the first of three games in as many days to begin the season for Western at the DII Canadian Tip-Off Classic tournament.
Sophomore forward BJ Kolly led Western with 20 points on 9-of-9 shooting, adding six rebounds and three blocks. Twelve of Kolly’s points came in the second half.
Three other Vikings scored double-digit points: Junior guard Will Wilson (16), senior forward Jonathan Ned (13) and junior guard Kai Johnson (12). Each also finished with at least five rebounds.
Western made 20-of-26 free throws (77%) while Daeman struggled at the line, making just 9 of 17 attempts (53%).
Next up for Western is a game against St. Edwards University (1-0) at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 4. The Vikings’ final game of the season-opening, non-league tournament will be against the University of Hawaii at Hilo (1-0) at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 5.
