Honolulu, HI — Hawai'i Pacific University (HPU) secured their second win of the season with an impressive 80-67 victory over Alaska Fairbanks at Chaminade, McCabe Gym on November 9, 2024. The Sharks, now 2-0 on the season, showcased their strong perimeter shooting and balanced team play to overcome their opponents, who dropped to 0-2.

First Half: Strong Start from Beyond the Arc

HPU opened the game with sharp shooting, hitting 48.28% from the field and an impressive 56.25% from three-point range (9-16). Sherman Brashear led the charge with 27 points, including five three-pointers, as the Sharks closed the first half ahead 39-35.

Second Half: Sharks Pull Away

The Sharks maintained their momentum in the second half, shooting 44.44% from the field and 50.00% from beyond the arc. HPU capitalized on their fast break opportunities, outpacing Alaska Fairbanks 18-17 in fast break points and extending their lead to secure the 80-67 win.

Team Performance and Key Stats

• Field Goals: HPU shot 46.4% overall (26-56), outperforming Alaska Fairbanks' 38.5% (25-65).
• Three-Point Shooting: HPU excelled with 53.3% accuracy (16-30) from beyond the arc compared to Alaska Fairbanks' 30.4% (7-23).
• Free Throws: HPU went 12-22 (54.5%), while Alaska Fairbanks shot 71.4% (10-14).
• Rebounds: Both teams were evenly matched with 39 rebounds each.
• Points off Turnovers: Both teams capitalized on turnovers with 14 points each.
• Bench Points: Alaska Fairbanks held a slight edge with 16 bench points to HPU's 14.

HPU Game Leaders

• Sherman Brashear: Led all scorers with 27 points, adding 9 rebounds and shooting 6-6 from the free-throw line.
• Joshua West: Contributed 12 points and 7 rebounds, showcasing defensive tenacity.
• Charlie Weber: Also tallied 12 points, including four three-pointers, and pulled down 6 rebounds.
• Pavle Kuzmanovic: Added 12 points, highlighted by his 4-7 shooting from beyond the arc.

Key Takeaways

HPU's consistent outside shooting was a game-changer, as their 16 three-pointers helped secure a commanding lead. Sherman Brashear's standout performance, along with key contributions from Joshua West, Charlie Weber, and Pavle Kuzmanovic, fueled the Sharks' offensive firepower. Despite some struggles at the free-throw line, the Sharks' fast-paced play and strong ball movement proved too much for Alaska Fairbanks to handle.

Final Score: Hawai'i Pacific 80, Alaska Fairbanks 67

The Sharks will look to carry this momentum into their upcoming matchups as they head to Sonoma next week. #GoSharks