by Dawson Forcella
CALDWELL, Idaho – Eastern Oregon University Men’s Basketball wrapped up action at the Taco Bell Shootout with a win Saturday afternoon. Taking on the Argos from the University of Providence, the Mountaineers pulled away in the second half to clinch a 71-62 victory to move to 3-3 on the year. The loss drops the Argos to 5-3.
The first half was neck and neck as the Argos went into the break with a one-point lead. Eastern Oregon took a physical advantage in the second half wearing down the Argos, especially on the boards. EOU more than doubled Providence’s rebounding total with 28 rebounds in the second half split evenly between offense and defense. The 14 second-half offensive rebounds helped the Mounties put up 21 second chance points which proved to be the key to the Mountaineers pulling away down the stretch.
The physical advantage and play of Phillip Malatare lead Eastern to the win. Malatare led the Mounties with 18 points and picked up a double-double with 10 rebounds to accompany his scoring.
Saturday’s win marks the end of a six-game non-conference stretch for the Mountaineers. EOU will take the court again Friday to begin CCC play when they take on the Hustlin’ Owls of Oregon Tech. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
STANDOUT PERFORMANCES
- EOU
- Phillip Malatare: 18 PTS, 10 REB, 2 AST
