Cal Poly’s men’s basketball team pulled off a win in a thriller against top seed and host Western Washington University with a buzzer-beater by sophomore forward Dwayne Fells, who scored with 0.6 seconds left to end the game 76-75.
The Broncos have today to rest, and will face Brigham Young University Hawaii in the West Region Final tomorrow at 7 p.m. in Bellingham, Wash. A win against the Seasiders will put the Broncos into the Elite Eight in Springfield, Mass.
The Broncos had a huge night offensively against Western Washington, with a lethal 70.8 percent field goal average in the first half as both teams shot over 55 percent for the game.
“Our guys showed poise, character and determination tonight," said head coach Greg Kamansky. “We showed our experience tonight with one of the most competitive games I’ve been a part of because both teams were championship caliber in a great college game.’’
Senior guard Austin Swift led the Broncos with 22 points and five assists while playing 40 minutes. Junior forward Donnelle Booker scored 15 points and pulled down nine rebounds for Cal Poly. Fells scored 11 for the night including the game-winner and had seven rebounds.
"What can you say about the determination and leadership shown tonight by our two seniors?,'' Kamansky said. "Austin showed for the second straight game that he's playing at an elite level. He's taken his game up a notch. And Dahir is just so steady and efficient. You couldn't ask anything more out of what they gave us tonight."
Tomorrow's game will be a rematch of last year’s West Region Final, where the Broncos defeated the Seasiders 59-58 on their way to the National Championship Game.
“[BYU Hawaii] is a dangerous team and everyone saw what they did to a very good Cal State San Bernardino team,’’ Kamansky said. “We’re going to enjoy our win tonight and prepare for a team that has many weapons.’’
BYU Hawaii defeated Bronco rivals Cal State San Bernardino in a 19-point statement win. Both teams are in form and the game is slated to be the toughest challenge so far for both teams.
Students looking to see the game can do so at www.wwuvikings.com or attend the screening in the Center Court of the Bronco Student Center at 7 p.m. Monday
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