The Benedictine Mesa Men's Basketball Team faced a tough challenge against Embry-Riddle, ultimately falling 84-96 in a competitive matchup.

First Half Summary: 
The first half of the game against Embry-Riddle was marked by intense competition, with Benedictine Mesa showcasing their offensive skills early on. Malik Payton set the tone by scoring the team's first points with a layup at 19:36, assisted by Tanner Crawford. However, Embry-Riddle quickly responded with a three-pointer from Noah Gifft and another from Peter Dress, putting Benedictine behind 6-4. Despite this, Benedictine fought to stay in the game, as Damian Zivak and Crawford contributed crucial points through free throws and layups. The team's defense, sparked by steals from Emad Elniel and Deven Franks, created opportunities that kept them competitive.

Franks was pivotal during the period, driving to the hoop for an and-one play at 16:13, narrowing the score to 10-15. As the game progressed, Payton hit two clutch free throws, maintaining the team's pressure on Embry-Riddle. However, a three-pointer from Jake Klingler allowed Embry-Riddle to reestablish a 18-10 lead. Benedictine continued to battle back, with Elniel and Franks pulling the score closer to 16-18 at 13:21. Both teams exchanged scoring opportunities, to bring the score to a 22-22 tie, with Zivak hitting a layup, assisted by Crawford.

Embry-Riddle answered with Jacey Canalin's three-pointer at 9:54 to extend their lead to 25-22. The Benedictine squad responded with a jumper from Zivak, but Embry-Riddle quickly countered, further solidifying their momentum. Despite a timeout, Embry-Riddle continued to score, extending their lead to 30-24. Benedictine's Tanner Crawford cut into the deficit with successful free throws, but Embry-Riddle maintained control, leading 50-36 at the half. 

Second Half Summary:
 The second half began with Embry-Riddle extending their lead, with a layup from Gifft making it 52-36. Benedictine quickly responded, as Damian Zivak sank a three-pointer assisted by Deven Foster to narrow the gap to 52-39. The Redhawks kept pushing, with Malik Payton hitting a three-pointer and following it with a layup, cutting Embry-Riddle's lead to 54-44.

Despite their efforts, Embry-Riddle maintained control, with Peter Dress contributing crucial baskets. Payton earned multiple trips to the free-throw line, helping Benedictine stay competitive. Awan Kueth added to the scoring with a layup assisted by Payton, making it 59-50.

As the game progressed, Embry-Riddle managed to hold their ground with consistent scoring. Benedictine fought hard, with Zivak converting free throws and a jumper to bring the score to 66-59. Despite Benedictine's relentless efforts, Embry-Riddle capitalized on their possessions, maintaining a comfortable lead and winning 96-84.

Key Performances:

• Malik Payton: 25 points, 3 rebounds, 3 blocks, 2 assists, 1 steal
• Damian Zivak: 22 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist
• Deven Franks: 16 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal

Looking Ahead: The Redhawks will return to their home court on Thursday, January 23, for a matchup against Park Gilbert.