Lauren Grey
Blues Crew, Communications
The Capilano Blues fell just short in a highly physical contest filled with intense back-and-forth moments, losing 77-71 to the Columbia Bible College (CBC) Bearcats. However, the Blues put forth a solid effort and a strong second-half push.
At halftime, the visiting Bearcats held a slim lead, 39-35, after a first half that saw both teams exchanging blows, but neither was able to create much separation. The game had a playoff-like atmosphere, with physical play and plenty of verbal exchanges between the teams.
Capilano came out of the break with the intention of fighting back, but both teams struggled offensively to start the third. However, Russell Curley was a standout for the Blues, putting up 16 points and 13 rebounds for a double-double. Damein Coleman also played a major role, contributing 12 points in 25 minutes. David Featherston Jr, off the bench, gave the Blues a significant lift with 10 points on 5-of-7 shooting in just 17 minutes of play.
By the end of the third, Capilano was trailing by just 1 point, 54-53, setting the stage for an exciting finish. The bench energy for Capilano was electric all game long, but the Blues struggled to convert in key moments, missing several key buckets that would have swung the momentum in their favour.
As the game wore on, the Bearcats tightened their defense and managed to execute when it mattered most. Despite the Blues' best efforts, they couldn't get over the hump, and the Bearcats held on for the win. While the Blues’ effort was commendable, missing key shots down the stretch proved to be the difference-maker in the final result.
Capilano will look to bounce back next week against the Douglas College Royals, taking the lessons from today’s tough loss and focusing on execution in the closing minutes.
Leading the way in tonight's loss.
— Capilano University Blues (@CapilanoBlues) January 19, 2025
Curley: 16 PTS, 13 REB
Coleman: 12 PTS, 3 REB
Athman: 8 PTS, 6 AST
Featherston Jr: 10 REB, 2 AST pic.twitter.com/SmexFbSliy
