The University of British Columbia Athletics

Brandon, MB - The UBC Thunderbirds picked up its first victory of the season, narrowly escaping Brandon with a 76-74 win Saturday night over the Bobcats. The Thunderbirds led by 15 after three quarters, but were outscored 21-8 in the final quarter by the Bobcats who, luckily for UBC, ran out of town. UBC finishes the opening weekend of the season with one win and one loss.

WIth 15 seconds left on the clock and down two points, the Bobcats had two opportunites to score, one to tie and one to win. Kenonte Ramsey missed a lay up with three seconds left and then off the rebound Emerick Ravier couldn't get a three to fall at the buzzer, which would have given Brandon a one point win. 
 
The game commenced with high energy as both teams came out ready to play. The UBC starters were led by Jordan Jensen-Whyte, who led the first quarter in scoring, played a vital role in pushing the Thunderbird defense forward, as did Tommy Nixon, who dominated the rebounding early in the game. However, after a back and forth opening quarter it was the hometown Bobcats in front 19-18.  

In the second quarter, play intensified and both teams fought for the lead early in the quarter. About five minutes in, UBC broke away due largely to the duo of Jensen-Whyte and David Wagner, who led the 'Birds in scoring and rebounds. UBC went into the half with a 42-35 lead.
 
After the half, UBC worked to solidify their lead, stretching the gap to 15 points going into the fourth quarter 68-53.
 
The Bobcats though were not willing to roll over and immediately moved into a full court press to start the final quarter, causing quick fatigue for the 'Birds. Within three minutes, Brandon cut the lead to just eight points. At the four-minute mark, the Bobcats tied it up, 72-72. After a suspenseful final minute of play, the Thunderbirds held on to pull out the two point victory, 76-74.
 
The 'Birds were led by Jensen-Whyte and Wagner, who scored 18 and 27 points, respectfully. Andrew McGuinness put up 12 for UBC, while Tonner Jackson and Tommy Nixon each contributed 11. Nixon also led the game in rebounding, securing 13 for the 'Birds.
 
Emerick Ravier and A.M. Benabdelhak scored 19 and 14 points for the Bobcats; Jordan Reaves and Kenonte Ramsey each contributed 13.
 
Next weekend, the 'Birds will host Trinity Western University for a pair of games at War Memorial Gymnasium. Games will tip-off at 8:00 pm on Friday evening and 7:00 pm on Saturday.