Benedictine Mesa Men's Basketball secured a decisive victory over Stanton University on Sunday, fueled by strong performances on both ends of the court.
 
The Redhawks started fast, with Tanner Crawford scoring the opening layup off a Seth Dawson assist. Early exchanges saw Stanton take a brief lead, powered by Justin Boateng and Emre Özel. Deven Foster kept Benedictine close with a string of jumpers and layups, but Stanton surged ahead 27-19. 
 
Turnovers plagued Benedictine midway through the first half. However, momentum shifted at the 4:54 mark when Malakai Harris made a key steal and followed with a dunk, giving Benedictine a lead they wouldn't relinquish. Critical contributions from Deven Franks, Harris, and Dawson helped the Redhawks enter halftime up 40-33.
 
Benedictine carried their energy into the second half, opening with a steal and dunk by Crawford to extend the lead to nine. While Djordje Mitrovic's three-pointer brought Stanton within six, turnovers and missed opportunities hindered their comeback. Benedictine capitalized with clutch plays by Franks, Harris, and Malik Payton to push the lead to double digits.
 
The Redhawks' defense was relentless, forcing turnovers and turning them into fastbreak points. By the 8:30 mark, Benedictine led 71-48, with key baskets from Harris, Payton, and Franks. Late-game efforts, including a three-pointer by Damian Zivak, sealed the Redhawks' 25-point victory.
 
Key Players:

• Deven Franks: 16 points, 2 rebounds, 2 steals, 2 assists
• Seth Dawson: 11 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 steal
• Damian Zivak: 11 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal

 
Looking Ahead:
The Redhawks return to action on Friday, December 6, hosting Westcliff at home.