Grand Canyon vs Western Kentucky | 2024.11.9

Grand Canyon's Miraculous Comeback Over Western Kentucky! 🏀✨

In a game filled with drama, the Grand Canyon University Lopes pulled off an incredible comeback to defeat Western Kentucky 74-72. Trailing by six points with just 1:27 left, the Lopes showed resilience and heart, scoring eight unanswered points to secure a thrilling win at the Global Credit Union Arena in Phoenix. The game’s hero was senior guard Ray Harrison, who drove to the basket with 0.4 seconds left to deliver the game-winning layup, setting off wild celebrations among GCU fans. 🎉

Key Performances:

Ray Harrison 💫: Despite struggling with his shot all night, Harrison delivered when it mattered most, scoring the game-winner and finishing with crucial plays down the stretch. "It was ugly, but to get a win like this means a lot," Harrison said, crediting his team’s fight and camaraderie.
Collin Moore 🔥: Moore recorded his first career double-double with 23 points and 10 rebounds, leading the Lopes in both scoring and rebounding. His aggressive play kept GCU close throughout the game, and he sank 7-of-10 free throws to keep the momentum alive.
Kobe Coles 💪: Coles notched his second double-double in as many games with 16 points and 11 rebounds, providing essential presence in the paint.
Game Highlights: The Lopes trailed 67-58 with under six minutes remaining, facing a Western Kentucky team that returned several starters from last season and played at a breakneck pace. In the final minutes, Makaih Williams came up big with a spinning kickout pass to Lök Wur, who drilled a corner three to bring GCU within three points. Williams then tied the game with a clutch putback and a free throw, setting up Harrison’s game-winning drive.

After forcing a turnover with 21.9 seconds remaining, Harrison executed a high screen with Coles, blowing past his defender for the game-winning layup with 0.4 seconds left on the clock. The crowd erupted as GCU extended its home winning streak to 18 games, even without starters Tyon Grant-Foster and Duke Brennan.

Game Stats & Analysis:

Clutch Finishing 🏆: GCU finished 3-for-4 from the field in the final minute, overcoming a tough shooting night with timely baskets.
Tough Defense 🔒: The Lopes forced 16 turnovers, which were crucial in turning the tide against Western Kentucky’s high-tempo offense.
Moore’s Dominance 📈: Moore’s second-chance points and aggressive play were vital, as he went 7-for-14 from the field and made both of his three-point attempts, keeping GCU within striking distance.
Post-Game Thoughts: Head Coach Bryce Drew praised his team’s determination: "We needed a miracle, and we were blessed. Those last three minutes were the best three of the whole game." The entire GCU squad celebrated in the locker room, not only for the win but also for the anticipated return of Grant-Foster for their upcoming showdown against Arizona State. 💥

Next Game: GCU (2-0) heads to the Footprint Center in Phoenix to take on Arizona State on Thursday in a Hall of Fame Series doubleheader.

Hashtags:
#GCU #LopesWin #GrandCanyonBasketball 🏀 #CollegeHoops #GameWinner #BryceDrew #RayHarrison #BasketballHighlights