THUNDER BAY – SPORTS – The Lakehead University Thunderwolves men’s basketball team didn’t tempt fate twice in as many nights, and closed out the game strong to earn a 86-79 win over the Brock Badgers.
It was all Lakehead early, as the ‘Wolves raced out to a 29-12 lead after the first quarter. Brock would bounce right back in the second, opening it up on a 6-0 run and pouring it on, scoring 29 points of their own in the Q and closing the gap to 47-41 at the break.
Lakehead was fortunate to have a buzzer-beating heave from Mor Menashe swish through to give them the 6-point cushion.
As the second half unfolded, neither team gave up an inch, and play got exceedingly rough for a long stretch in the third quarter.
Lakehead was able to better contain Johneil Simpson on this occasion, limiting him to 16 points and 6 rebounds. Dani Algadi would step up, scoring 20 points and posed a serious threat before fouling out with 5 minutes remaining in the game.
The fourth quarter looked much like that on Friday evening, with both teams’ offensive wells drying up. When his team needed him, veteran Anthony McIntosh stepped up large on consecutive possessions, twice blocking shots that led to shot clock violations, and following it up on the other end with finishes in the paint. His play gave Lakehead the boost it required, and enough room for Lakehead to prevail with a win.
McIntosh finished with 16 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 blocked shots. Six Thunderwolves scored in double digits, with Dwayne Harvey scoring 17 and Mor Menashe 16.
Coach Manny Furtado commented, “I’m happier with our guys effort tonight. We played with more energy and determination. There were times in the game where our guys were tested and they answered every time.”
“It’s not to often you get to play the #1 and #2 team in the country in the same weekend. We need to have a great week of practice and be mentally prepared for Ottawa and Carleton.”
Lakehead goes on the road next weekend to play Ottawa and Carleton.
