Eagles Defeat CNCC on Sophomore Night 97-59

USU Eastern Press Release

Utah State Eastern men’s basketball defeated the Colorado Northwest Spartans 97-59 on Thursday. It was the home finale for the Eagles and also the team’s sophomore night where they honored nine sophomores that were on this year’s team.

During the game, the Eagles were dominating on defense and shutdown the Spartan’s offense in the early goings of the first half. USU Eastern didn’t allow the Spartans to reach double-digit points until 5:47 was left in the first half when they led 34-9.

“We played really good defense and were aggressive and took them out of their comfort zone. They couldn’t run their plays and limited them to one shot,” said USU Eastern head coach Vando Becheli.

At halftime, the Eagles led 55-20 and forced 14 turnovers by the Spartans. On offense, the Eagles shot 57.1% from the field and 50% from the three point line.

Utah State Eastern point guard Jeffery Yan said that he credits his team’s effort for the impressive first half.

“It started with energy and effort. The first group came out and really set the tone and whoever came in with a lot of energy. Coach Vando told us if we came out with effort that we would come out on top,” said Yan.

The Eagles played loose in the second half and every player who was dressed to play in the game played some minutes against CNCC.

All 15 players who played scored at least one point on Thursday night, something that Coach Becheli told his players before the game he wanted to see happen.

“I told them in the locker room before the game that I would like them to share the ball and they did that very well and played unselfish. The game was very enjoyable for the fans and for us as coaches,” said Vando.

Yan and sophomore guard Milan Surlic’ led the team in scoring with 12 points apiece. Yan said after the game he was glad his team played well together and everybody contributed.

“I thought we played good as a team and that is something we focused on. We played together and shared the ball,” said Yan.

Becheli said that he was happy to get the win on sophomore night for his nine sophomores who won’t play another game in the BDAC.

“For them, it was great, especially seeing them with a smile on their face in front of the home crowd,” said Becheli.