After a 35-point win earlier in the week, the Southern Utah University men’s basketball team went on the road to face the University of Arizona Wildcats. SUU’s star guard Jamir Simpson had another great game, scoring over 20 points for the sixth time this season, but the rest of the team struggled. Arizona led by double-digits for most of regulation and came out on top 102-66.
First half
The Thunderbirds started the game with a strong offense boosted by Tavi Jackson and were able to keep the score within five points for the first 10 minutes of play. Arizona began to take over past that point, not allowing Southern Utah to score for over four minutes, giving the team a 33-16 lead. This dominance persisted through the half, putting the Wildcats up 55-23.
Second half
Coming out of the break, Arizona continued their attack and held strong through the rest of the game. Southern Utah had a much better half offensively, but could not get any stops on defense, giving the Wildcats a decisive 102-66 victory.
Key players
— Simpson had 21 points, four assists and seven rebounds.
— Anthony Dell’Orso had 19 points.
— Tobe Awaka scored 12 points and seven rebounds.
What’s next?
The Thunderbirds will return to action on Monday, Dec. 16, at 7 p.m. to face New Mexico State University on the road.
Author: Jacob McQueary
Photographer: Margaux Feret
Editor: Jack Paul
