(AZUSA, CA) - The Hawaii Pacific University Sharks (17-8, 12-5 PacWest) took on the Azusa Pacific University Cougars (9-16, 8-10 PacWest) on Thursday night. This was a crucial matchup, as the race to the PacWest Conference tournament is closer than ever.

The game started with each team taking small leads, until the Sharks were able to pull away and take control. Down 5-0 to start the game, the Sharks ended the half on 32-16 run to take a 32-21 lead at the half. They held the Cougars to just 21% field goal shooting in the half. 

The second half was back and forth, with the Cougars chipping away and narrowing the lead to just one point with two minutes left. The Sharks were able to execute down the stretch and make some game-winning plays, including a thunderous alley-oop dunk by Matthew Van Komen. 

Van Komen finished the night with 14 points, 16 rebounds, and 2 blocks in just 26 minutes played. Melo Sanchez scored 19 points, grabbed 4 rebounds, and dished out 4 assists. Forward Maj Dusanic made his presence felt, finishing with a stat line of 14 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists. 

The Sharks take on the Biola Eagles tomorrow night in La Mirada, California. This matchup will have major implications for the final PacWest standings.