Fullerton, CA - The Hope International University Royals Men's Basketball Team (14-2, 3-0 GSAC), secured their third consecutive conference win at home this Saturday evening with a dominant 75-41 victory over the Park-Gilbert Buccaneers (5-10, 2–1 GSAC) in the Darling Pavilion.
The Royals got off to a strong start as CJ Fisher drained a jumper to start the half. The Buccaneers quickly countered with a jumper and three pointer of their own keeping the game competitive at 5-2 with 18:40 remaining in the half. The Royals and Buccaneers exchanged competitive baskets before the Royals took control with a 15 point lead. The Royals recorded two back to back three pointers by Jonah Felix, two points from Josh Hardiman, a free throw and jumper by Jozelle Carter Jr, and a layup and three pointer by CJ Fisher bringing the score to 26-11 with 8:46 to go in the first. The Buccaneers answered with some points of their own in an attempt to disrupt the Royals run. However, the Royals defense forced multiple turnovers furthering their lead to 35 points at the end of the first half. The Royals entered halftime with an overwhelming 50-15 lead.
In the second half the Royals continued to widen their lead while displaying their defensive dominance. They quickly went on a 7-0 run that kicked off with a layup by Josh Hardiman, assist Aaron Wadman, bringing the score to 57-15 with 17:19 left in the game. The Buccaneers fought hard to shorten the lead but were unable to capitalize on their offensive possessions. In the last minutes of the second half Braxton recorded a jumper while Nathan Garnett hit a three pointer to bring the score to 75-32 with 3:25 to go. The Buccaneers went on their own 7-0 run to finish the game but it was not enough to overcome the Royals' commanding lead. The Royals finished the game up 34 points at 75-41. Jozelle Carter Jr recorded 15 points 7 rebounds, Josh Hardiman recorded 14 points 5 rebounds, and CJ Fisher finished with 13 points 4 rebounds.
The Royals will continue their GSAC campaign on the road as they face the Arizona Christian University Firestorm this Thursday in Glendale, Arizona
