HONOLULU, Hawai'i - In a special and spirited matchup, the Hawai'i Pacific Men's Basketball Team clinched a significant 66-58 victory over the Azusa Pacific Cougars during the first annual "Field Trip Day." The game took on added significance as hundreds of local elementary school children were in attendance, creating an electric atmosphere at the venue.
The first half of the game saw the Sharks assert their dominance early, surging to a fourteen-point lead. This impressive lead was fueled by standout performances, most notably from Charlie Weber, who extended his remarkable streak of hitting double digits for the ninth consecutive game. Weber's scoring consistency showcased his offensive prowess and contributed significantly to the Sharks' commanding position.
On the defensive end, Hawai'i Pacific displayed a tenacious effort, causing the Azusa Pacific Cougars to start the game off slowly. The Cougars struggled to find their rhythm, shooting a mere 18.8% from the field in the first half. The Sharks' defensive prowess limited the Cougars' scoring opportunities and allowed them to establish control on both ends of the court.
The second half of the game saw a spirited comeback attempt by Azusa Pacific, as they came within one point of the Sharks with just three minutes left on the clock. The Cougars demonstrated resilience and determination, putting the pressure on Hawai'i Pacific and making the contest even more thrilling for the keiki in attendance.
However, in a crucial moment, Dominique "Diggy" Winbush, who had a quiet first half, stepped up with a clutch three-pointer that not only halted the Cougars' momentum but also sparked a 6-0 run by himself. Winbush's timely contributions proved pivotal in restoring the Sharks' lead and fending off the comeback efforts of the visitors.
As Azusa Pacific scrambled to find a way back into the game, Josh Niusulu connected with Maj Dusanic, who emphatically slammed dunked his way to a 22-point performance. Dusanic's impactful play further extended the lead for Hawai'i Pacific, diminishing the hopes of the Cougars.
The Sharks managed to hold on to their lead for the remainder of the game, navigating the pressure and securing the 66-58 victory. The win not only showcased the team's resilience and ability to respond to challenges. Melo Sanchez emerged as a key player for the Sharks, making significant contributions on both ends of the court. Sanchez showcased his versatility by finishing the game with a game-high 11 rebounds, demonstrating his prowess on the boards, and added five assists to contribute to the team's offensive execution. Charlie Weber, a consistent performer for Hawai'i Pacific, delivered an impressive showing with 19 points and in a historic moment, Dominique "Diggy" Winbush achieved a milestone by becoming the first former junior college player to reach 200 points in a season since Ronald Blain accomplished the feat in the 2018-2019 season
As the Hawai'i Pacific Men's Basketball Team celebrated this hard-fought triumph, the event served as a successful blend of competitive basketball and community engagement. The Sharks' ability to secure the win in front of a young and enthusiastic audience highlighted the team's commitment to fostering a positive connection with their community, making the first annual "Field Trip Day" a resounding success.
