Chris Raeside
Sport Information Event Management, Media & Sport Development Officer
The Capilano University Blues put forth a spirited effort but were ultimately overwhelmed by the Vancouver Island University (VIU) Mariners in a tough 90-60 loss. Despite a strong start that saw six ties and three lead changes in the first half, the Blues couldn’t overcome turnovers and VIU’s relentless defensive pressure.
Barcha Hnizdilova was the standout for Capilano, scoring 16 points on an efficient 7-for-13 shooting, while also grabbing 6 rebounds and dishing out 2 assists. Sereena Hothi added 13 points, including a pair of three-pointers, while Mia Parkin contributed across the board with 9 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists. The trio kept the Blues within striking distance early, but their efforts were undone by the team’s 32 turnovers, which led to 39 points for the Mariners.
The Blues’ shooting was respectable, hitting 42.3% from the field and 34.8% from beyond the arc. However, they struggled at the free-throw line, converting just 8 of 13 attempts (61.5%). In contrast, VIU capitalized on nearly every trip to the stripe, making 22 of 24 free throws (91.7%), widening the gap on the scoreboard.
Capilano’s reserves had a quiet night, combining for just 8 points, as the Mariners' deep bench outscored them 40-8. Defensive rebounds from Parkin and Mina Djordjevic (6 boards each) kept the Mariners from completely dominating the glass, but Capilano’s struggles to secure second-chance opportunities—managing only 7 second-chance points—proved costly.
The game’s turning point came in the second quarter when VIU ramped up their defensive intensity, forcing turnovers that sparked transition opportunities. By halftime, the Mariners had seized control and never looked back, extending their lead to as much as 35 points late in the fourth quarter.
While the scoreline reflects a tough loss, there were positives for Capilano. Hnizdilova’s scoring consistency and Parkin’s all-around play showed leadership and versatility. The team’s shooting efficiency was solid, offering a foundation to build on as they aim to cut down turnovers and find more offensive contributions from the bench.
The Blues won’t have to wait long for redemption. The two teams are set to face off again tomorrow at 1:00 PM, giving the Blues an immediate chance to adjust and challenge the Mariners in a rematch.
Blues basketball home court action resumes after our Nationals hiatus to face the @VIUMariners.
— Capilano University Blues (@CapilanoBlues) November 23, 2024
Leading the way for CapU:
Hnizdilova - 16 PTS, 6 REB, 3 BLK
Hothi - 13 PTS, 5 REB, 3 AST
Parkin - 9 PTS, 7 REB, 6 AST#GoBlues #BleedBlue #CapU pic.twitter.com/xsIul8tVvc
