ABBOTSFORD, B.C. – The UBC Thunderbirds (1-0) began their Canada West season with a victory on the road, as they defeated the UFV Cascades (0-1) 75-72 at the UFV Athletic Centre on Halloween night.

UBC overcame having 10 more turnovers and 16 fewer free throws than their opponents through their efficient shooting. The 'Birds knocked down just under 54% of their shots and dominated scoring in the paint, winning that battle 46-28.

In all, the T-Birds were down by two after the first quarter, gained a small lead by half-time and then played the second half to a near draw, resulting in the narrow victory.



Nikola Guzina was a beast for the blue and gold, showing off his newly added off-season bulk he powered his way to a team-high 16 points and game-high 11 rebounds for a tasty double-double. Sweet shooting Adam Olsen also knocked down 3/6 threes as part of his 12 points. Micah Jessie chipped in 11 points off of the bench while shooting a tidy 4/6 from the field.

The 'Birds return to Point Grey for their home opener on Saturday against Trinity Western, which is presented by YVR. Tip-off at War Memorial Gym is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. (PT).

Tickets to the home opening double header with the women's team may still be available here. Watch all Thunderbirds basketball regular season action, live or on demand, on Canada West TV.