Westcliff survives Keelhaulers’ second-half charge in Thursday’s Cal Pac opener

VALLEJO, Calif. – Fans in attendance for Thursday's Cal Pac Conference opener at PEAC Main Gym were treated to a defensive showcase throughout the first half as the visiting Warriors led 36-30 at halftime.

Even though Westcliff led by as many as 21, thanks to 8 of 11 shooting from three after the break, Cal Maritime pulled within eight numerous times as action progressed, but WU connected on 10 of 14 free throws in the latter moments of the game to secure an 84-68 result over the Keelhaulers.

DeAndre Minor (15 points) and Illyaas Rafiq (12) combined for 27 of their team's 48 bench points in a game that saw CSUM connect on .489 pct. of its shots from the floor.

Unfortunately for Cal Maritime, Westcliff finished its night shooting .568 overall thanks to its second-half shooting: it connected on 15 of 20 field goal attempts after halftime.

Cal Maritime will experience a quick turnaround since its homestand will continue on Saturday, at 3 p.m., against Saint Katherine. The Keelhaulers will return to their home floor with an overall record of 0-8 and 0-1 mark versus Cal Pac opponents.

Westcliff will continue its season at 1-3 and 1-0, respectively.