by FAIRBANKS – Kyle Tomlinson hit the game-winning three-pointer with nine seconds to play and Ashton Edwards scored a game-high 20 points to lead the Alaska Nanooks to a dramatic 68-66 win against Black Hills State to open the GCI Alaska Invitational and the Nanook regular season.
With the Nanooks on the verge of losing, 66-65, late in the second half, Tomlinson buried an exquisite three-point shot from the corner, right in front of his teammates, to give the Nanooks a dandy of an opening day victory. Black Hills State (1-1) had a chance to win with a last second layup, but Almir Hadzisehovic got enough of the shot to keep it out, preserving the win.
Edwards was named the Ravn Alaska Nanook of the Game, as he scored 20 points on 6-12 (.500) from the field, including going 5-6 from the three-point line. Edwards also contributed four assists and a steal. Tomlinson had 15 points on 5-8 from beyond the arc and also had an assist, a steal and three rebounds.
Ruben Silvas (Pascua Yaqui Tribe)scored in double figures, as he had 10 points, while also contributing a co-team-high six rebounds. Hadzishovic also had six rebounds and had a game-high four blocks.
Brody Brisk scored 17 points to lead the Yellow Jackets offensively.
The Nanooks will look to earn back-to-back victories to start the season, as they take on West Alabama tomorrow night at the Patty Center. West Alabama lost the opening game of the GCI Alaska Invitational, 86-75, to Minnesota State Moorhead prior to Alaska’s triumph.
Ruben is the real deal. I like his playing style, very good bball IQ and quick on the ball and on defense.