Chris Raeside
Sport Information Event Management, Media & Sport Development Officer
Heartbreaker in Overtime: Blues Fall 88-87 to Chargers in Thrilling Finish
The Capilano University Blues suffered a heartbreaking 88-87 overtime loss to the Camosun College Chargers in a thrilling matchup Friday night. Despite leading by as much as 13 points late in the third quarter, the Blues couldn't hold off a relentless Chargers comeback, ultimately falling short in the extra period.
Strong Start Slips Away
The Blues came out strong, taking a 21-18 lead after the first quarter and extending it to 40-38 by halftime. Powered by an explosive third quarter, Capilano pushed the lead to 68-57, thanks in large part to Arshya Ghasemi’s offensive outburst. Ghasemi was unstoppable off the bench, scoring a game-high 33 points on 11-of-19 shooting, including 7-of-11 from beyond the arc.
However, the momentum shifted in the fourth quarter. Camosun’s sharp shooting and perfect free-throw performance (11-for-11) allowed them to claw back, eventually tying the game at 78-78 as regulation ended.
Turnovers Prove Costly
In overtime, the Chargers’ defense tightened up, forcing key turnovers that sealed the Blues' fate. Capilano committed 21 turnovers in total, including several in the extra frame, which Camosun capitalized on for 22 points off turnovers. Despite dominating the boards (41-27) and generating 17 second-chance points, the Blues’ inability to protect the ball proved costly.
Free throws were another sore spot. Capilano shot just 56% from the line (14-for-25), leaving crucial points on the table, while Camosun was flawless from the stripe.
Standout Performances
Aside from Ghasemi’s stellar showing, Kash Lang contributed 17 points and 4 assists, while Zach Klim anchored the paint with 11 points and 10 rebounds, earning a double-double. The Blues' bench was a bright spot, outscoring Camosun’s reserves 45-30, but it wasn't enough to overcome the late-game miscues.
Quick Turnaround
The Blues won’t have long to dwell on this tough loss, as they face the Chargers again tomorrow at 3 PM in a highly anticipated rematch. Capilano will look to clean up their turnovers and improve their free-throw shooting in hopes of evening the series.
With today’s nail-biter setting the tone, tomorrow’s rematch promises to be another intense battle on the hardwood.
