Savannah Mackay
Blues Crew, Communications
In the rematch against the VIU Mariners, Capilano aimed to make a comeback and prevent VIU from achieving a weekend sweep. The Blues fought, but ultimately the Mariners pulled away for a 100–67 win.
Capilano struck first in the opening quarter, with Kash Lang knocking down a three to open the scoring, followed by a layup from Afu Bullock. The Blues leaned heavily on shooting from outside the paint early, as Zach Klim hit multiple jump shots and Justin Pamintuan and Zach Hamed added threes to their game. Despite Capilano’s energy, VIU stayed composed, matching baskets and controlling the pace. The quarter ended tight, with the Blues holding a 21–20 lead.
VIU opened the second quarter with more intensity, creating scoring chances and capitalizing on Capilano’s mistakes to take the lead. The Blues responded with timely shots from Klim and strong offensive leadership from Lang, keeping the game close. Capilano moved the ball well and found opportunities off rebounds, but VIU’s work at both ends of the court allowed them to slowly build an advantage, heading into halftime up 40–47.
Momentum shifted decisively in the third quarter. Capilano struggled to find rhythm offensively, going scoreless for stretches while VIU capitalized on opportunities from breaks in the Blues defense. Pamintuan hit a three to stop the run, and Daniel Abkenar added a layup, but the Mariners’ rebounding and offensive push stretched the lead quickly. By the end of the third, VIU had built a 21 point lead at 71-50.
The fourth quarter saw Capilano continue to compete, with Lang hitting another three, Pamintuan adding points from the perimeter, and Klim continuing to contribute defensively with rebounds and blocks. Hamed remained active on the glass, finishing with eight rebounds, the highest of the night. However, turnovers and missed opportunities allowed VIU to maintain control. The Mariners closed the game and sealed a 100–67 victory.
The Capilano Blues return home on February 6 and 7 as they host the Douglas Royals in their next matchup at the Centre for Sport and Wellness.
